There's not much that the drought hasn't affected in our agricultural community, but there is one thing that hasn't been all dried up. Lubbockites will be glad to know there is no shortage of Christmas trees in the Hub city.
Little Red Nursery, formerly known as Little Red Riding Hood Nursery, is fully stocked for this holiday season.
"It's just something special to go out every year and get to pick out the tree," Anna Johnson, Owner of Little Red Nursery, said.
Johnson said the historic drought in our state hasn't depleted their sapling supply.
"No, the tree production is pretty consistent because we bring the trees in from the Oregon area. So the trees are being grown specifically for this use and we haven't noticed anything that far up," Johnson said.
Johnson promotes ditching the fake tree and keeping holiday rituals alive by going natural.
"Well, there's no beating the smell, first of all, and that's part of it, as well as the tradition," Johnson said.
It's not just you who will benefit from buying a real tree.
"They are growing it specifically for that use. So they're not being strip-harvested or anything like that, so it's helping the agriculture industry as well."
Buying a potted Christmas tree is another option. That way, after the holiday is over you can plant the tree in your yard outside, so it lives on for years.
"That way you guys can go pick out your Christmas tree, enjoy it indoors for a little time, and then plant it in the ground," Johnson said.
For those who say it's too messy to haul in a natural tree, Johnson has a few fresh ideas.
"The idea is you need to shake out as many loose needles as you can before you come indoors. And if you happen to pick a variety that's a little more succulent like this noble fur and those don't drop and shed as often," Johnson said.
It's also important to keep the tree watered in the stand. Not only does it reduce the possibility of a fire, it also keeps the needles moist so they're less likely to fall out.
