How Much More You’ll Have To Pay For Your Christmas Tree This Year
Our pocketbooks are feeling the pinch this year, with inflation hitting nearly every aspect of our lives. And unfortunately, your Christmas tree is no exception. News of skyrocketing prices impacting a beloved holiday has hit especially hard.
Despite rapidly increasing costs in every industry, many had high hopes they could make it to (and through) Christmas ok. Even with the news that record-high fertilizer prices would drive up the costs of agricultural products, it may not have registered that your fresh Christmas tree would also get impacted. But it has.
According to ABC7 News out of New York, “A survey found growers have increased their prices by between 5%, and in some cases, as much as 20%.” Even the littlest tree will set you back approximately $49.99. However, five-foot trees will put a dent in your Christmas budget.
This year, those run anywhere between $85 and $135. That is enough to make anyone’s heart stop for a moment. But don’t get too upset at those growing the Christmas trees.
Unfortunately, they are stuck between a rock and a hard place. The National Christmas Tree Association (yes, there really is such an organization) explained what is behind the significant price jump. And they place the blame primarily on fuel costs.
Jill Sidebottom is a member of the National Christmas Tree Association. She told ABC7 that the underlying cause is the “Price of fuel. And that in turn affects fertilizer prices and other the costs of other things that they use to produce the crop and to harvest their crop.”
However, fuel prices are not the only factor. Thanks to inflation, labor costs have also skyrocketed. And that puts a tremendous amount of pressure on growers.
They have to factor in those heightened labor costs, jumps in fuel prices, and sky-high fertilizer bills. But not all of those who sell Christmas trees are willing to pass the increases on to consumers. The news station spoke with one owner who only wants to help bring joy to the season.
George Smith owns a tree shop in New York City, but unlike most stores, he did not raise his prices. Not only that, but Smith is generously offering discount coupons. Plus, he said he is open to price negotiation.
But why is he taking such a unique Christmas tree stand? He said, “We’re here for the everyday working person. We have a treat for every budget, any price.”
Now that is the Christmas spirit! However, it is not so convenient if you don’t live within driving distance of Smith’s shop. But never fear.
There are other ways you can save money on your Christmas tree this holiday season. One option is to shop at your local big box store. They will have some of the better prices.
And the reason for that is simple. When you pop by one of their locations, chances are high that you will walk out with more than just a tree. So the company can offset the hit they take on your tree by selling you more of what you need (or want).
Another way to save is by embracing your inner Charlie Brown. Look for the perfectly imperfect tree. Chances are you can snag a good discount on an unwanted evergreen.
