Christmas tree shortage? Where to get a tree before it's too late

Don't delay on your Christmas tree shopping this year. Supply chain and local weather issues could lead to a Christmas tree shortage. Getty Images

Buying holiday gifts already? That's a smart idea, but you might want to consider getting a Christmas tree early this year, too. We haven't even made it to Halloween, and already, worldwide supply-chain bottlenecks and shipping delays are wreaking inventory havoc for stores, and that could result in a Christmas tree shortage.

Whether you're buying an artificial Scotch pine or a real Fraser fir, the American Christmas Tree Association recommends that shoppers select their Christmas trees early this year. The retailers expect Christmas tree shipping costs to quadruple from 2020, citing weather events including fires, droughts and heat waves, as well as supply chain issues that could result in fewer trees.

Live or artificial trees -- the recommendation is the same. While it may be too early to cut down and decorate a real tree in October -- it'd be a pile of dried needles by Thanksgiving -- there are a number of live-Christmas-tree retailers who are taking reservations to guarantee your tannenbaum for December.

So where can you find a tree before it's too late? We've found a selection of Christmas trees, live or artificial, that you can buy online right now. Want to trim a life-like balsam fir? Trying to stash the hottest toys of 2021 under a pink tinsel tree? Keep reading, because we've found the perfect tree for you. Just be sure to order it soon, so you won't have to spend the whole month of December looking for a Christmas tree nursery near you.

Pre-lit Colton fir 7.5' artificial Christmas tree

This 7.5-foot artificial tree is conveniently trimmed with 650 remote-controlled, color-changing LED lights and features 8 different light settings. The pre-lit Christmas tree also includes an extra-strong top branch for a tree topper and a tree stand.

Pre-lit Colton fir artificial Christmas tree (7.5 foot), $199

$199 at Walmart

White artificial 6' Christmas tree

This 6-foot artificial white Christmas tree is a modern-looking holiday addition to your home and is made with anti-crush PVC material. The tree comes in three pieces, including a metal stand. It is also available in other sizes.

White artificial Christmas tree (6 foot), $50

$50 at Walmart

Costway pre-lit 4.5' Christmas tree

If you have low ceilings, or are looking for a smaller tree to decorate an office or a bedroom, this pre-lit artificial Christmas tree is a great option. This crush-proof tree is trimmed with 200 softly glowing LED lights. It also comes with a metal base that includes plastic feet covers to protect your floor.

Costway pre-lit Christmas tree (4.5 foot), $63

$63 at Walmart

Artificial tinsel 6' pink Christmas tree

The pink Christmas tree of your dreams is at Walmart. This 6-foot artificial tree is made with shiny pink non-flammable and non-allergenic tinsel. It has 1,477 tips, which means you'll have more than enough room for ornaments, lights, popcorn balls, stockings and whatever else you could ever want to trim your tree with. The tree is currently listed for a reduced price. Ornaments in the photo are not included.

Artificial tinsel pink Christmas tree (6 foot), $70 (regularly $110)

$70 at Walmart

6' Christmas tree with ornaments and lights

First holiday away from the family? If you don't want to shop for expensive lights and ornaments, this tree is for you. The crush- and fade-resistant artificial tree comes with a variety of Christmas tree essentials, including a tree topper, ribbon, floral decorations and ornaments that you arrange yourself. The Amazon seller also offers the tree with woodland-themed ornaments, or Christmas tree essentials with a blue-and-white winter theme.

Christmas tree with ornaments and lights (6 foot), $195

$195 at Amazon

Artificial flocked 7.5' Christmas tree

This 7.5-foot artificial fir tree makes for a wintery addition to your living room or front porch. The holiday centerpiece arrives as three parts (its branches require fluffing). If you love the flocking style and want an even more bold option, this Christmas tree is also available in red.

Artificial flocked Christmas tree (7.5 foot), $220

$220 at Amazon

Fresh Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas tree (sizes vary)

These live Fraser firs are grown in the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. A 6- to 7-foot tree retails for $130. Every extra foot is around another $30. For guaranteed freshness, Williams Sonoma will ship your Christmas tree to you within 48 hours of harvesting, based on your selected delivery window.

Fresh Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas tree, $130

$130 at Williams Sonoma

Unlit artificial 5' Christmas tree

This artificial Christmas tree has a slim design, making it a smart option for small rooms. The Christmas tree features 220 branch tips made with crush resistant PVC needles. It's planted in an iron stand to provide support and balance no matter how many Christmas tree ornaments you hang on it this year.

Unlit artificial Christmas tree (5 foot), $60

$60 at Home Depot

Pre-lit Douglas fir 6' artificial Christmas tree

Don't worry about untangling all your old Christmas lights -- this artificial Christmas tree comes with them. This Douglas fir-inspired tree is made with 535 fire-retardant and adjustable branches that will safely hold your Christmas tree decorations. This artificial tree comes in three pre-assembled sections and includes a four-legged metal base.

Pre-lit Douglas fir artificial Christmas tree (6 foot), $70

$70 at Home Depot