After Thanksgiving is over, one of the most fun traditions in many families is finding that perfect Christmas tree. Spending time with loved ones while browsing at a tree farm can build great memories. Here are some of the best places to get a Christmas tree in Des Moines.

Before Christmas Ornaments, you need a Tree

Miller Tree Farm

Address:
7404 SE Vandalia Dr, Runnells, IA 50237

Hours: 
3PM - 5PM Mon. through Thurs.
9AM - 5PM Friday and Saturday
12PM - 5PM Sunday

Phone: (515) 266-9881

Website: http://www.millertreefarm.com/

Walnut Ridge Farm

Address:
1400 E Hillcrest Ave, Indianola, IA 50125

Hours:
Saturdays: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sundays: Noon - 5:00 pm
Weekdays: Noon - 5:00 pm.
Closing at 5:00 pm December 16th

Phone: (515) 961-6979

Website: https://www.walnutridgefarms.com/

Rettig Tree Farm

Address:
7602 NE 114th Ave, Bondurant, IA 50035

Hours:
Open daily from 9AM - 5PM

Phone: (515) 967-4013

The Christmas Tree Farm

Address:
33459 663rd Ave, Maxwell, IA 50161

Hours:
3PM - 5PM Monday through Friday
9AM - 5PM Saturday and Sunday

Phone: (515) 387-8778

Website: https://christmastreehunter.com/

How to Pick a Christmas Tree

When shopping for a live Christmas tree, be sure to check a few things before buying:

• Is the tree free of pests and insect damage? Check the tree for signs of insect infestation or damage. Insect damage can be unsightly and affect the life of the tree.
  
• Does the tree have gaps in the branches? While trees naturally may have gaps, finding a full tree looks better and is easier to decorate. If you find that your tree does have some gaps, try and hide the gaps against a wall or in a corner and let the best side of the tree face outward.
  
• Shake the tree. Do the needles fall out easily? This is an important check if buying a tree that is pre-cut, as it could indicate dehydration or disease. If you’re looking at cutting your own tree, shake it a little before choosing to ensure that it won’t rapidly lose its needles once you get it home.

Getting a real tree for Christmas can help bring in the holiday cheer, but be sure you’re not creating a fire hazard. Keep the tree away from fireplaces and heat sources, and be sure to water it on a regular basis. Also, just like flowers that are kept in a vase, trees will eventually begin to deteriorate. As the tree goes bad, it loses its ability to absorb water, which can lead to a fire hazard. Don’t keep the tree too long after Christmas; many get rid of the tree around the turn of the New Year.

Getting rid of your tree is also the time to start considering Spring cleaning. Agent Clean of Des Moines offers house cleaning service for siding, roofs, gutters, and concrete, and offers free estimates. Get ahead of the schedule and book your spring house cleaning when you throw out your tree.