Christmas tree lots seeing earlier sales during COVID-19 pandemic

Randy Ledford said he decided to open Elk Mountain Christmas Tree Farm on N.C. Highway 751 in Durham two weeks before Thanksgiving -- earlier than ever before. Sure enough, customers started showing up right away.

“I believe the demand is going to be high or higher than last year because of the people not traveling as much and doing a traditional Christmas at home with their families," said Ledford. "I’m already noticing early sales.”

WRAL viewers shared photos of their own trees on Facebook -- some of which have been up for weeks. If you're buying a fresh tree this year, be sure to keep it watered, experts say. Conditions are drier this year and the trees can become fire hazards if not cared for properly.