buchanan-evergreen-farms

Christmas Tree Farm Family Traditions at Buchanan Evergreen Farm

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:04:08 GMT

For many families, getting the tree is not an errand. It is the day the holiday season begins. At Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown, PA, we have been welcoming families since 1978, and many of our customers now bring their own children to the same fields where they once picked a tree.

If this is your first visit, or your first in a while, here is what a day at the farm looks like.

A Family-Owned Farm Since 1978

Trees Grown From Seed

The Buchanan family has been growing fresh Christmas trees and live evergreens since 1978. Our mission is to grow quality trees from seed, and we tend all the live trees on our property so we can offer our customers the best.

A Tradition for Many Generations

Customers tell us the farm has been part of their holiday routine for years. Some make the drive every season, and others say it has been a family tradition for as long as they can remember.

The Tradition Begins With a Wagon Ride

Ride Out to the Field

The fun starts when you climb on the wagon and ride out to the trees. Kids love the ride, and it gives everyone a chance to scout the rows on the way out.

Find Your "Perfect Tree"

Once you are in the field, take your time. Look at every side, compare heights, and let everyone have a say.

Our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees include Canaan fir and Colorado blue spruce, with cut-your-own trees from 6 to 16 feet tall.

Warm Up in the Barn

Pre-Cut Trees and Fresh Wreaths

After the field, head to our barn. You will find Pre-Cut Christmas Trees hand-cut daily and handmade fresh and artificial wreaths to match your tree.

Ornaments, Antiques, and Country Decor

Our gift shop is stocked with holiday decor , including European glass ornaments, antiques, pine cones, dried flowers, and country decorations. Families often pick up a new ornament each year as part of the tradition.

Family Photo Mini-Sessions

Photographers can schedule their clients' mini-sessions at the farm. Session dates this season are Saturday, November 14, Sunday, November 15, Saturday, November 21, and Sunday, November 22. Call 724-508-7121 to reserve a spot.

Plan Your Visit

• Open November 21 through December 23, 2026

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Black Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Thanksgiving Day

• Payment: cash or checks only

• Pets: please leave them at home (see our Pet Policy )

• Address: 3259 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm to Start Your Tradition

Whether this is your first Christmas tree farm visit or your twentieth, we would love to be part of your holiday. Call 724-508-7121 with questions about hours, directions, or photo sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Buchanan Evergreen Farm offer wagon rides?

Yes. You can take a wagon ride out to the field to find and cut your own Christmas tree.

Do you have trees that are already cut?

Yes. We stock pre-cut trees in our barn, hand-cut daily, mostly from 6 to 10 feet tall.

Can photographers book sessions at the farm?

Yes. Mini-session dates are November 14, 15, 21, and 22. Call 724-508-7121 to reserve.

Where is the farm?

We are at 3259 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050, 5 miles north of Starlake Amphitheater and 1 mile south of Raccoon Creek State Park.

From the wagon ride to the last ornament in the gift shop, a day at Buchanan Evergreen Farm is built around family. We have been growing and sharing that tradition since 1978. Call 724-508-7121 or visit the farm this season.

How to Keep a Fresh Christmas Tree Alive Longer

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 20:42:46 GMT

A fresh-cut tree can stay green and fragrant through the entire holiday season, but only if it gets the right care in the first few hours and every day after. The good news is that the routine is simple. Water, placement, and a little attention are most of the job.

Here is how to keep a fresh Christmas tree alive longer, from the moment it leaves the farm until it comes down.

Start Strong: The First Few Hours

Get the Tree Into Water Quickly

A freshly cut tree seals itself with sap, and that seal can block water if too much time passes. The sooner the trunk is in water, the better. If it will be more than a few hours between cutting and setting it up, keep the trunk out of direct sun and wind, and ask us at the farm about the best way to prep it.

Make a Fresh Cut if Needed

If the cut end has dried and sealed, a fresh cut of about half an inch off the base helps the tree drink again. Cut straight across, not at an angle or in a V shape, so the stand can hold the tree securely.

Water Is Everything

Use a Stand With a Large Water Reservoir

A good rule of thumb is about one quart of water per inch of trunk diameter. A fresh tree can drink a lot in the first few days, so choose a stand with a big reservoir and check it often.

Never Let the Base Go Dry

Check the water level every day, and keep it above the base of the trunk. If the base dries out, it can seal again and stop taking up water. Plain water is all you need, and special additives are not necessary.

Choose the Right Spot in Your Home

Keep It Away From Heat

Place the tree away from fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, and heat vents. Heat dries a tree faster and makes it drink more water, so a cooler spot helps it last.

Choose a stand that fits the trunk and keeps the tree upright. A tree that is secure is safer around kids and pets.

Daily Care Through the Season

Use Cool Lights

LED lights give off less heat than older incandescent bulbs, so they are easier on a fresh tree. Turn the lights off when you leave the house or go to bed.

Check the Water Every Day

Make it a habit: check the stand each morning, and refill when the water level gets low. A quick glance at the reservoir is the best habit for a long-lasting tree.

Know When It Is Time to Take It Down

If needles are dry and falling off in large numbers, the tree is telling you it is done. Remove it, rather than leaving a dry tree up for another week.

Start With a Fresh Tree From Buchanan Evergreen Farm

A fresh tree is easier to keep alive. At Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown, we tend all our live trees and offer both Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees and Pre-Cut Christmas Trees that are hand-cut daily. Call 724-508-7121 with any care questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does a fresh Christmas tree need?

A common guideline is about one quart of water per inch of trunk diameter, and a fresh tree may drink the most in the first few days.

Should I add sugar, aspirin, or other additives to the water?

No. Plain water is all a fresh tree needs.

Do I need to cut the trunk again at home?

If the tree has been out of water for several hours, a fresh straight cut of about half an inch can help it drink. Ask us at the farm if you are unsure.

How long will a fresh-cut tree last?

With proper care, about four to five weeks is typical.

A fresh tree, steady water, and a cool spot away from heat are the keys to a long-lasting Christmas tree. Start with a healthy tree from Buchanan Evergreen Farm, and call 724-508-7121 if you need help.

What to Bring When Visiting a Christmas Tree Farm

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 20:02:04 GMT

A trip to a Christmas tree farm is one of the best parts of the season, and a little planning keeps it smooth. You will be walking outdoors, loading a tree, and probably shopping for wreaths and decor too. Here is a simple checklist so nothing slows you down.

These tips are written for families visiting Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown, PA, but they work for most cut-your-own tree farms in Western Pennsylvania.

Payment and Planning Essentials

Bring Cash or a Checkbook

This one matters most: Buchanan Evergreen Farm accepts cash or checks only. Stop at the bank or bring your checkbook so you can pay for your tree, wreaths, and anything you pick up in the barn.

Know Your Tree Size Before You Go

Measure your ceiling height and the width of your tree spot, and keep the numbers in your phone. A quick photo of the room can also help when you are choosing between trees in the field.

Check Our Hours and Season Dates

We are open November 21 through December 23, 2026. Hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with Black Friday open 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We are closed Thanksgiving Day.

Dress for a Western Pennsylvania Farm Day

Waterproof Boots

Field conditions in late fall can be wet, muddy, or snowy. Boots with good traction keep your feet dry and steady while you walk the rows.

Layers, Gloves, and a Hat

Weather can swing from sunny to freezing during the same visit. Dress in layers, and bring gloves, because evergreen branches can be scratchy and sticky with sap.

Gear for Getting Your Tree Home

Rope, Ties, and a Tarp

Bring strong rope or tie-down straps, plus an old blanket or tarp to protect your vehicle. Call us at 724-508-7121 to ask what we provide for wrapping and loading so you know what to pack.

Think About Your Vehicle

A tall tree needs space. Check the length of your roof rack, truck bed, or trailer against the tree height you are considering. Our cut-your-own trees go up to 16 feet, so plan the ride home before you cut.

Leave the Pets at Home and Bring the Family

Please leave pets at home. We love animals, but we ask this for their safety and for the safety of our guests. See our Pet Policy .

Do bring the kids, a camera or phone for photos, and a warm drink for the ride out to the field. Plan extra time to browse our holiday decor and live and artificial wreaths in the barn.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm Before You Visit

Have a question about tree sizes, hours, or directions? Call 724-508-7121 . We are at 3259 PA-18 in Hookstown, 5 miles north of Starlake Amphitheater and 1 mile south of Raccoon Creek State Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept credit cards?

We accept cash or checks only.

Can I bring my dog to the tree farm?

No. Please leave pets at home for their safety and for the safety of our guests.

What should I wear to a Christmas tree farm?

Wear waterproof boots, warm layers, and gloves. Field conditions can be muddy or snowy.

Is the farm open on Black Friday?

Yes. We are open Black Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We are closed on Thanksgiving Day.

A little preparation makes your Christmas tree trip easier and more fun. Bring cash or a checkbook, dress for the weather, and plan how you will get your tree home. Then call 724-508-7121 or visit Buchanan Evergreen Farm to find your "Perfect Tree."

How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree for Your Home

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 19:29:54 GMT

The "Perfect Tree" looks different for every family. For one household it is a tall, full spruce that fills the front window. For another it is a slim fir that fits beside the couch. A little preparation before you arrive makes it much easier to pick a tree you will love for the whole season.

Use this guide to match the right tree to your space, your style, and your budget, whether you plan to cut your own or choose from our pre-cut trees.

Start With Your Space

Measure Your Ceiling Height

Measure from the floor to the ceiling in the spot where the tree will stand. Then subtract about a foot for the tree stand and your topper. As a rule of thumb, a room with 8-foot ceilings works well with a tree of roughly 6 to 7 feet.

Measure Width and Think About Placement

Trees are wider at the base than most people expect. Check how much floor space you can spare, and keep the tree away from fireplaces, heat vents, and busy walkways. Decide in advance whether the tree will show on all sides or sit with its back to a wall.

Pick the Right Tree Type

Canaan Fir

Canaan fir has soft needles, a pleasant fragrance, and a classic shape. It is a great all-around choice for families who want a traditional look.

Colorado Blue Spruce

Colorado blue spruce has a bluish-silver look and sturdy branches that can support heavier ornaments. Its needles are stiffer, so it suits homes where the tree will be admired more than touched.

See both options in our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees and Pre-Cut Christmas Trees .

How to Check That a Tree Is Fresh

The Needle Test

Gently bend a few needles. On a fresh tree they should be flexible and springy, not brittle or dry. Run a branch lightly through your hand and notice if lots of needles fall off.

Look and Feel

A healthy tree has rich color and a pleasant evergreen smell. Cut-your-own trees are the freshest choice because you pick the tree while it is still growing.

Look at Shape, Branches, and Trunk

Branch Spacing

If you plan to hang many ornaments, look for branches with some space between them. Fuller trees look dense and classic, while open branching shows off special ornaments.

A Straight Trunk

A straight trunk makes the tree sit evenly in a stand. Check the base to make sure there is enough clear trunk to fit your stand.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm for Help Finding Your Tree

Choosing a tree is easier with a little guidance. At Buchanan Evergreen Farm, our friendly staff can help with all your needs, whether you cut your own or choose from the barn. Call 724-508-7121 to plan your visit, then come see our live and artificial wreaths to match your tree.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tree should I buy for an 8-foot ceiling?

A tree around 6 to 7 feet usually leaves enough room for the stand and a topper.

How do I know if a tree is fresh?

Flexible needles, rich color, and a fresh evergreen smell are good signs. Brittle needles that drop easily are not.

Is a cut-your-own tree fresher than a pre-cut tree?

A tree you cut yourself is cut right as you take it. Our pre-cut trees are hand-cut daily, so both options are fresh.

Can the farm staff help me choose?

Yes. Our team can help you with sizes, varieties, and loading.

The perfect tree is the one that fits your space and makes your family smile. Measure first, check for freshness, and take your time. Visit Buchanan Evergreen Farm or call 724-508-7121 to find your "Perfect Tree."a

Canaan Fir vs. Colorado Blue Spruce Christmas Trees

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 18:15:47 GMT

Standing in front of a row of evergreens, it is fair to ask what actually separates one tree from the next. Two of the most popular choices at Buchanan Evergreen Farm are the Canaan fir and the Colorado blue spruce. Both are beautiful, but they look, feel, and smell different.

Here is a plain-language comparison to help you choose before you head to the field.

Canaan Fir Christmas Trees

Soft Needles and a Classic Shape

Canaan fir is a classic Christmas tree favorite. It has soft, dark green needles and a full, balanced shape that looks great with lights and ornaments. Because the needles are soft to the touch, it is easy to handle when you are carrying it, trimming it, or decorating around kids.

Fragrance and Needle Retention

Canaan fir is known for its pleasant evergreen fragrance and for holding its needles well when it is kept in water. If you want your home to smell like the holidays, this is a strong pick.

Colorado Blue Spruce Christmas Trees

Silvery-Blue Color and a Sturdy Form

Colorado blue spruce stands out for its bluish-silver tint and its dense, symmetrical shape. It makes a striking tree, especially in a room with white lights or a more modern color scheme.

Stiff Branches That Hold Ornaments

The branches of a blue spruce are stiff and strong, which makes it a good choice if you plan to hang heavier ornaments. The needles are sharper than a fir's, so wear gloves when you handle it. Like any fresh tree, a spruce needs steady watering to stay looking its best.

At Buchanan Evergreen Farm we have Colorado spruce available up to 16 feet tall in our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees field.

Which Tree Fits Your Home

Homes With Kids and Pets

Canaan fir is easier on little hands because the needles are soft. If you have young children who will be touching the tree, fir is a comfortable choice.

Heavy Ornaments and Big Rooms

If you collect glass or heirloom ornaments, the sturdy branches of a Colorado blue spruce hold them well. For big rooms, remember our cut-your-own Colorado spruce can reach 16 feet.

Your Style

Prefer a classic green tree that smells like the holidays? Go with Canaan fir. Want a silvery-blue tree that looks great with white lights? Choose Colorado blue spruce.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm to Pick Your Tree

The easiest way to decide is to see them side by side. Visit our farm in Hookstown, PA, and compare both trees in person, either in the barn or out in the field. Our Pre-Cut Christmas Trees and Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees include both varieties. Call 724-508-7121 with questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Christmas tree smells stronger, Canaan fir or blue spruce?

Canaan fir is generally the more fragrant of the two, with a classic evergreen scent.

Which tree is better for heavy ornaments?

Colorado blue spruce has stiff, strong branches that hold heavier ornaments well.

Does Buchanan Evergreen Farm have both trees?

Yes. Our farm has plenty of 6 to 10 foot Canaan fir and Colorado blue spruce trees to choose from.

How tall can a cut-your-own Colorado spruce be?

We have Colorado spruce available up to 16 feet tall.

Both the Canaan fir and the Colorado blue spruce make a beautiful centerpiece. The best choice comes down to scent, feel, and style. Visit Buchanan Evergreen Farm or call 724-508-7121 to see them both.

Cut Your Own vs. Pre-Cut Christmas Trees

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 17:19:46 GMT

Choosing between a cut-your-own Christmas tree and a pre-cut tree is one of the first decisions of the season. Both can give you a beautiful, fragrant centerpiece. The right pick depends on how much time you have, how tall your tree needs to be, and how much you want the trip itself to be part of the holiday.

At Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown, PA, you do not have to choose just one. Here is how the two options compare.

The Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Experience

A Wagon Ride and a Walk Through the Field

Cutting your own tree starts with a wagon ride out to the field. From there you walk the rows, compare trees from every angle, and make the final call together. For many families, this is the tradition that makes the season feel real.

More Height Options

Our cut-your-own trees range from 6 to 16 feet tall, and we have Colorado spruce available up to 16 feet. If you have a tall foyer, church hall, or great room, the field gives you the most room to find the right size. See our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees for more.

You Choose the Exact Tree

When you pick a tree in the field, you see its full shape, spacing, and trunk before it is cut. If you are particular about a fuller side, a flat back for a wall, or a certain height, nothing beats selecting it yourself.

The Convenience of Pre-Cut Christmas Trees

Hand-Cut Daily and Ready to Go

Our Pre-Cut Christmas Tree s are hand-cut daily and displayed in our barn, so you can look them over indoors and out of the weather. Most pre-cut trees are 6 to 10 feet tall.

Great for Busy Schedules and Cold Days

If you are short on time, bringing young children, or just not up for a walk in the cold, pre-cut is an easy way to get a beautiful tree and still enjoy the farm. We pick the "Perfect Tree" so you do not have to.

Which Option Is Right for Your Family

Choose Cut-Your-Own If You Want the Tradition

If the day at the farm is as important as the tree, go cut-your-own. The ride, the search, and the moment you find the right tree are what many families remember most.

Choose Pre-Cut If You Want Simplicity

If you have a tight schedule, a toddler in tow, or snowy weather, pre-cut is a stress-free route. You still get a fresh tree and can still shop our live and artificial wreaths and holiday decor in the barn.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm to Choose Your Tree

Cannot decide? Visit the farm and see both options. Our friendly team can help you find a tree that fits your space and your plans. Call 724-508-7121 for hours, directions, or questions about sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pre-cut trees at Buchanan Evergreen Farm fresh?

Yes. Our pre-cut trees are hand-cut daily and selected from our own farm.

How tall are the trees?

Pre-cut trees are mostly 6 to 10 feet tall. Cut-your-own trees range from 6 to 16 feet tall, with Colorado spruce available up to 16 feet.

Can I cut my own tree and also buy a wreath?

Absolutely. Many families pick a tree and then browse our wreaths and holiday decor in the barn.

How much do trees cost?

Prices depend on the tree and size, so please call 724-508-7121 for current pricing. We accept cash or checks only.

Whether you cut your own or choose a pre-cut tree, the best choice is the one that fits your family. Both options at Buchanan Evergreen Farm come from trees we raise ourselves. Call 724-508-7121 to plan your visit.

Best Christmas Tree Farm Near Pittsburgh, PA

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:26:23 GMT

There is a moment every December when the house still feels a little bare, and a fresh evergreen is the only thing that can fix it. If you are searching for the best Christmas tree farm near Pittsburgh, PA, a short drive into Beaver County gets you to a place where the trees are grown from seed, the fields are open, and the whole family can pick a tree together.

Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown has been a family-owned Christmas tree farm since 1978. Here is what sets a great tree farm apart, and what you can expect when you visit us this season.

What Makes a Great Christmas Tree Farm Near Pittsburgh

A Wide Selection of Healthy Trees

The best farms give you real choices. At Buchanan Evergreen Farm you can choose from Canaan fir and Colorado blue spruce, with pre-cut trees from 6 to 10 feet and cut-your-own trees from 6 to 16 feet tall. That range covers everything from a cozy apartment corner to a great room with vaulted ceilings.

Trees Grown From Seed

Our mission is to grow quality trees from seed, and we tend all of the live trees on our property. Because we care for each tree from the start, you know exactly where your tree came from and how it was raised.

Why Families Drive to Hookstown for Their Christmas Tree

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree With a Wagon Ride

Part of the fun is the hunt. Hop on a wagon ride out to the field, walk the rows, and find your "Perfect Tree." Our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees are a favorite for families who want the trip to be part of the holiday.

Pre-Cut Trees, Hand-Cut Daily

Short on time, or not in the mood for a cold field? Our barn is stocked with Pre-Cut Christmas Trees that are hand-cut daily. We pick the "Perfect Tree" so you do not have to.

Wreaths, Ornaments, and Country Decor

A tree is only the start. Our barn is filled with live and artificial wreaths , handmade and ready to match your tree, along with holiday decor like European glass ornaments, antiques, pine cones, dried flowers, and country decorations. We can also custom-make large or unique items.

Directions to Buchanan Evergreen Farm From Pittsburgh

We are located at 3259 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050, in Beaver County. Look for us on PA Route 18, 5 miles north of Starlake Amphitheater and 1 mile south of Raccoon Creek State Park. If you would like help finding the farm, call 724-508-7121 for directions.

Hours and Season Dates for 2026

• Open November 21 through December 23, 2026

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Black Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Thanksgiving Day: Closed

We accept cash or checks only. To keep every visitor safe, we also ask that pets stay at home. Read our Pet Policy before you go.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm for Your Perfect Tree

Skip the crowded lots and make the trip to a farm where the trees are grown with care. Whether you want to ride out to the field and cut your own or pick a pre-cut tree from the barn, our friendly team is ready to help. Call 724-508-7121 today with any questions about hours, directions, or tree sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Buchanan Evergreen Farm offer cut-your-own Christmas trees?

Yes. You can take a wagon ride to the field and cut your own Canaan fir or Colorado blue spruce. Cut-your-own trees range from 6 to 16 feet tall.

What are the hours for the 2026 season?

We are open November 21 through December 23. Weekdays are 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, weekends are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and we open at 8:00 AM on Black Friday. We are closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Where is the farm located?

We are at 3259 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050. The farm is 5 miles north of Starlake Amphitheater and 1 mile south of Raccoon Creek State Park on PA Route 18.

Can I bring my dog to the farm?

We love animals, but we ask that you leave your pets at home to protect their safety and the safety of our guests.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash or checks only, so plan ahead before you visit.

Finding the best Christmas tree farm near Pittsburgh comes down to quality, selection, and a welcoming experience. At Buchanan Evergreen Farm, you get all three, along with a family tradition that has been growing since 1978. Call 724-508-7121 or plan your visit today.

Best Time to Cut Down a Christmas Tree in Western PA

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 15:51:10 GMT

Every family has a different answer to the question of when the tree should go up. Some want it the weekend after Thanksgiving, others wait until mid-December. If you plan to cut your own, timing affects more than the calendar: it changes how crowded the farm is, how much choice you have, and how long your tree stays fresh in the living room.

Here is how to choose the best time to cut down a Christmas tree in Western Pennsylvania, with dates for the 2026 season at Buchanan Evergreen Farm in Hookstown.

When Does Christmas Tree Season Start in Western Pennsylvania

Why Timing Matters

A tree that is cut and kept in water drinks steadily, so freshness is more about care than the exact day you cut it. What timing really changes is selection. Early in the season the fields are full and you can compare many trees before choosing. Later in December, the best shapes and sizes are more likely to be picked over.

Our 2026 Season Dates

Buchanan Evergreen Farm opens on Saturday, November 21, 2026, and stays open through December 23. We are open seven days a week, and our Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees and Pre-Cut Christmas Trees are both available throughout the season.

Best Days and Times to Visit

Opening Weekend and Black Friday

If you want the widest selection, opening weekend and Black Friday are a popular choice. We open at 8:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Black Friday, so an early arrival gives you good morning light and a calmer field. Note that we are closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekdays run from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. If your schedule allows, a weekday afternoon is a relaxed way to take your time in the field. Weekends tend to be busier, which is part of the fun for families who enjoy a lively holiday atmosphere.

How Early Is Too Early to Cut a Christmas Tree?

A Fresh Tree Lasts Several Weeks

With consistent watering, a fresh-cut tree typically stays in good shape for about four to five weeks. That means a tree cut on opening weekend can still look great on Christmas morning if you keep the stand full. Our guide on how to keep a fresh Christmas tree alive longer walks through the details.

Match the Date to Your Family Plans

If you want the tree up for the full season, come in the first weeks. If you prefer a tree that goes up closer to Christmas, a mid-December visit works well, and we are open through December 23.

Plan for Western Pennsylvania Weather

Cold, Snow, and Mud

November and December weather in Western Pennsylvania can change fast. Field conditions may be wet, muddy, or snowy, so wear waterproof boots, gloves, and layers. If the forecast looks rough, our Pre-Cut Christmas Trees in the barn are a comfortable alternative.

Go Early in the Day

Daylight gets short in December, and we close at 6:00 PM. Arriving in the morning or early afternoon gives you plenty of light to look over every side of a tree before you decide.

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm to Plan Your Visit

Not sure which day is right for your family? Call us at 724-508-7121 and we will help you plan around the weather, the crowds, and the size of tree you want. We are open seven days a week during the season, and we would love to see you at the farm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too early to cut a Christmas tree on opening weekend?

Not if you water it well. A fresh-cut tree kept in a full stand can stay fresh for several weeks.

How long does a fresh-cut Christmas tree last?

With regular watering, a fresh-cut tree typically lasts about four to five weeks indoors, depending on the species and how warm your home is.

What is the last day to get a tree at Buchanan Evergreen Farm?

The farm is open through December 23, 2026. Selection can be more limited late in the season, so call ahead if you need a specific size.

Is the farm open on Thanksgiving?

No. We are closed on Thanksgiving Day and open on Black Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The best time to cut down a Christmas tree in Western Pennsylvania is the time that fits your family, as long as you plan for the weather and keep the tree watered. For the widest selection, visit early in the season. Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm at 724-508-7121 to plan your trip.

buchanan-evergreen-farms

Christmas Tree Farm Family Traditions at Buchanan Evergreen Farm

A Family-Owned Farm Since 1978

Trees Grown From Seed

A Tradition for Many Generations

The Tradition Begins With a Wagon Ride

﻿

Ride Out to the Field

Find Your "Perfect Tree"

Warm Up in the Barn

Pre-Cut Trees and Fresh Wreaths

Ornaments, Antiques, and Country Decor

Family Photo Mini-Sessions

Plan Your Visit

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm to Start Your Tradition

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Buchanan Evergreen Farm offer wagon rides?

Do you have trees that are already cut?

Can photographers book sessions at the farm?

Where is the farm?

How to Keep a Fresh Christmas Tree Alive Longer

Start Strong: The First Few Hours

Get the Tree Into Water Quickly

Make a Fresh Cut if Needed

Water Is Everything

Use a Stand With a Large Water Reservoir

Never Let the Base Go Dry

Choose the Right Spot in Your Home

Keep It Away From Heat

Daily Care Through the Season

Use Cool Lights

Check the Water Every Day

Know When It Is Time to Take It Down

Start With a Fresh Tree From Buchanan Evergreen Farm

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does a fresh Christmas tree need?

Should I add sugar, aspirin, or other additives to the water?

Do I need to cut the trunk again at home?

How long will a fresh-cut tree last?

What to Bring When Visiting a Christmas Tree Farm

Payment and Planning Essentials

﻿

Bring Cash or a Checkbook

Know Your Tree Size Before You Go

Check Our Hours and Season Dates

Dress for a Western Pennsylvania Farm Day

﻿

Waterproof Boots

Layers, Gloves, and a Hat

Gear for Getting Your Tree Home

﻿

Rope, Ties, and a Tarp

Think About Your Vehicle

Leave the Pets at Home and Bring the Family

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm Before You Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept credit cards?

Can I bring my dog to the tree farm?

What should I wear to a Christmas tree farm?

Is the farm open on Black Friday?

How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree for Your Home

Start With Your Space

﻿

Measure Your Ceiling Height

Measure Width and Think About Placement

Pick the Right Tree Type

Canaan Fir

Colorado Blue Spruce

How to Check That a Tree Is Fresh

The Needle Test

Look and Feel

Look at Shape, Branches, and Trunk

Branch Spacing

A Straight Trunk ﻿

Call Buchanan Evergreen Farm for Help Finding Your Tree

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tree should I buy for an 8-foot ceiling?

How do I know if a tree is fresh?

Is a cut-your-own tree fresher than a pre-cut tree?

Can the farm staff help me choose?

A Straight Trunk

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree With a Wagon Ride