Having trouble finding that perfect christmas tree? Can’t find the one that really stands out to you? Well look no further! As there are many different trees looking to be bought in your area. What are these places you ask, well, The East Quogue Fire Department, located at 465 Montauk Highway, has their annual Christmas tree sale going on now, as well as Hampton Nursery at 205 West Montauk Highway in Hampton Bays, Aspatuck Gardens, 303 Montauk Highway in Westhampton Beach and many more.

If you are looking for a fresh cut, Balsam or Fraser fir tree for your home, head over to a local tree outlet. If you just want green plastic on a pole, think about this, do you really want your christmas tree from the same place you buy groceries?

Buying real trees can support local farmers and at the end of the season can be turned into mulch for planting. In many other states like Illinois and Louisiana, real christmas trees can be recycled for other reasons. In Louisiana, Christmas trees are used to strengthen coastal wetlands that have been eroded by hurricanes, and in Illinois, leftover and used trees are used to set up nesting habitats for heron.

Fake trees are made from polyvinyl chloride, most commonly known as PVC. Dioxin, a toxic chemical, is released during the production of these fake trees. If a fake tree happens to catch on fire, it will also release dioxin. Many fake trees have been contaminated with lead, which come with a warning label advising you to wash your hands after handling a fake tree to prevent ingestion of lead.

If you can’t decide, just go with a real tree, caring for one is just a small price to pay for the harmful chemicals released from and put in those fake trees. Plus, nothing beats the smell of a fresh christmas tree.

Trees are available at the East Quogue Fire Department Monday through Friday from 4 pm to 9 pm, and on weekends from 10 am to 9 pm and will run till December 25th.