- 1). Decide what kind of tree you want and how large. Most tree farms have trees ranging from 5 feet to 15 feet or more, and offer several varieties. Decide on a budget as well: trees can range from $30 for small trees of 4 or 5 feet to hundreds of dollars for trees up to 20 feet or even larger. If you are buying a tree for a new home or for the first time, measure the height of your ceiling and subtract 12 to 18 inches for the tree stand; the resulting number is the height of the tallest tree that will fit in the space.
- 2). Plan how you will get the tree home. If you will put it in the trunk of your car, take along some bungee cords to keep the trunk partially closed as you drive. If you need to put the tree on the roof of your car, take some heavy-duty twine. Tree farms will help you put the tree in your trunk or secure it on the car roof.
- 3). Visit the Pick Your Own New Jersey Tree website (see Resources) to locate a tree farm with a cut-your-own option. A call ahead ensures that you will find the kind of tree you are looking for, as well as confirm hours. While most farms have saws you can use, some do not, so if you want to cut the tree yourself (not just select it and have someone on the farm cut it), ask before you go.
- 4). Wear comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting a little dirt on, and take drinks or snacks if you plan to visit more than one farm. Be sure to wear sturdy and water-resistant shoes or boots -- you may find yourself walking a lot to find the perfect tree. In addition to entertainment and refreshments, some farms also have gift shops with ornaments, tree stands, tree skirts, tree bags, fresh greenery for garlands, wreaths and other holiday accessories.
- 5). Select the tree you want and measure to make sure it will fit. Once cut, shake the tree to remove any insects or debris from the branches. Spiders, praying mantis and even field mice can nest or lay eggs in Christmas trees. Especially check around the bottom of trees for mice. Then, ask the tree farm to wrap or bale the tree to make your return safer and easier.