Advertisement

Does Target Have Real Christmas Trees?

If you are hoping to pick up a fresh-cut real Christmas tree at Target, you will likely be disappointed. Most Target stores do not carry real Christmas trees because the company focuses on artificial trees and holiday decor. However, in some areas, local vendors may set up tree lots in Target parking lots, but those are run separately. The safest bet is to shop elsewhere for a real tree or consider Target’s wide selection of artificial options.

Does Target sell real Christmas trees in 2024?

As of 2024, Target does not sell real Christmas trees as a regular item. Their seasonal aisles are filled with artificial trees, lights, ornaments, and tinsel, but you will not find fresh-cut firs or potted pines inside the store. The exception is if a local farm or tree lot rents space in a Target parking lot – but that is not a Target product. To be sure, check your local store’s website under “Garden Center” or “Holiday Shop,” but expect artificial only.

Advertisement

Why doesn’t Target sell real Christmas trees?

Target has always been a general merchandise retailer, not a garden center or tree farm. Selling real trees requires special handling, refrigeration, and disposal services that most Target stores are not set up for. Artificial trees, on the other hand, are easier to stock, store, and ship. They also have higher profit margins and can be sold year after year. So Target chose to focus on fake trees and let other stores handle the real deal.

What types of Christmas trees does Target sell instead?

Target offers a huge range of artificial Christmas trees in all sizes and styles. Here are the main types you will find:

  • Pre-lit artificial trees – come with built-in lights (clear or multi-color) to save setup time.
  • Unlit artificial trees – for those who want to add their own string lights.
  • Pencil trees – slim and space-saving, great for corners or small apartments.
  • Flocked trees – coated with artificial snow for a wintery look.
  • Upside-down trees – a quirky option that hangs from the ceiling.
  • Outdoor artificial trees – weather-resistant for porches and decks.

Prices range from under $50 for a small tabletop tree to over $500 for a 12-foot luxury model. You can browse and buy online or in-store.

Where can you buy real Christmas trees instead?

If you want a real tree, you have several better options than Target. Here are the most popular places:

  • Home Depot – sells fresh-cut Fraser firs, noble firs, and other varieties starting in late November.
  • Lowe’s – similar selection, often with in-store tree stands and saws for trimming the trunk.
  • Local tree farms – you can cut your own tree or pick a pre-cut one; supports local agriculture.
  • Farmers’ markets – many have tree sellers in December.
  • Walmart – also sells real trees in many locations, though quality can vary.
  • Whole Foods – sometimes carries organic or sustainably grown trees.

Prices for real trees usually range from $30 to $150 depending on size and type.

Real tree vs. artificial tree: which is better for you?

To help you decide, here is a simple comparison table:

Feature Real Tree Artificial Tree
Smell Fresh pine scent No natural smell
Cost over time ~$50/year, repeated One-time ~$100–$300, lasts years
Setup effort Need to cut trunk, water daily Pull out of box, fluff branches
Allergens Pollen, mold possible Dust, but no pollen
Disposal Must recycle or haul away Box up for next year
Realism 100% natural Very realistic now, but not perfect

If you love the tradition of picking and smelling a fresh tree, go real. If you want convenience and reusability, an artificial tree from Target (or elsewhere) may be better.

What should you look for in an artificial tree from Target?

If you decide to buy an artificial tree at Target, keep these features in mind:

  • Height and width – measure your ceiling height and floor space. A 7-foot tree is standard for most rooms.
  • Tip count – more tips mean fuller branches. Look for at least 1,000 tips for a 7-foot tree.
  • Light type – decide between incandescent (warm glow) or LED (energy-saving, cooler). Some trees have color-change lights.
  • Material – PVC and PE (polyethylene) are common. PE branches look more realistic but cost more.
  • Fire rating – check that the tree is flame-resistant.
  • Warranty – many artificial trees come with 1-5 year warranties.

Target’s own Threshold and WonderMade brands are popular for durability and realism.

Can you order a real Christmas tree online?

Yes, you can order a real Christmas tree online from several retailers. Options include:

  • Amazon – sells live potted trees and fresh-cut trees shipped directly to your door. Look for sellers like Balsam Hill or Treeland Nurseries.
  • Home Depot – offers online ordering with local pickup or delivery.
  • Lowe’s – similar online ordering and delivery services.
  • Local farm websites – many farms now offer delivery within their region.

When ordering online, check the shipping window – most trees ship in late November or early December to stay fresh. Also factor in extra costs like delivery fees.

If you need a reliable tree stand to hold your real tree steady, consider the Krinner Christmas Tree Stand. It has a unique ratchet system that makes setup easy and keeps water in the reservoir. Another useful accessory is a Christmas Tree Disposal Bag for easy cleanup after the holidays.

Does Target sell live potted Christmas trees?

Target usually does not sell live potted Christmas trees (like a miniature Norfolk pine or a living spruce that can be planted later). Their garden centers focus on houseplants and seasonal flowers, not holiday trees. If you want a living tree to plant after Christmas, check local nurseries or Amazon’s live tree selection – they often sell small live spruce trees that can be kept indoors for a few weeks then transplanted.

What about Target’s holiday return policy on trees?

Target’s standard return policy applies: most items can be returned within 90 days with a receipt. Artificial trees are returnable in new condition. Real trees are generally not sold by Target, so return policies don’t apply. However, if you buy an artificial tree and it has defects, Target will usually accept a return or exchange. Keep your receipt or use the Target app to save your purchase history.

What other holiday decorations does Target offer?

Even without real trees, Target is loaded with holiday decor. You can find:

  • Ornaments – from ball ornaments to licensed characters.
  • Garlands and wreaths – artificial, pre-lit, and unlit.
  • Tree skirts and stands – to dress up your artificial tree.
  • String lights – indoor and outdoor LED options.
  • Outdoor decorations – inflatable snowmen, light-up reindeer, and more.

Target also has a Bullseye’s Playground section (dollar spot) full of small, affordable holiday trinkets. If you are looking for a tree topper, check their selection of stars and angels.

For those who buy an artificial tree, a quality tree skirt can complete the look. The Holiday Time Plush Tree Skirt is soft, machine-washable, and comes in many sizes.

Are there any Target stores that sometimes sell real trees?

In rare cases, a Super Target with a large garden center might sell real trees if they have the space and seasonal demand. But this is not consistent. The best way to know is to call your local store directly or use the Target app to search for “real Christmas tree.” If no results appear, they don’t carry them. Some stores in states like Texas, Florida, and California have hosted pop-up tree lots from local farms – but again, these are independent vendors.

What is the best alternative if you want a tree from Target but prefer real?

If you love Target but want a real tree, you can do a two-step plan: buy a real tree from a local farm or a big-box hardware store, then decorate it with Target ornaments and lights. That way you get the best of both worlds – a fresh tree and Target’s style. Or consider a real-looking artificial tree from Target, such as the WonderMade Realistic Fraser Fir, which has soft PE needles and a natural shape.

For keeping a real tree hydrated, a quality water funnel can save messes. Try the Christmas Tree Water Funnel that attaches to the stand – it makes watering much easier and prevents spills.

How to make an artificial tree look more realistic

If you end up with an artificial tree from Target, you can improve its look with a few tricks:

  • Fluff branches – take time to separate and spread each branch to create a full shape.
  • Use multiple light strands – thin, warm