GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — For many choosing the perfect Christmas tree is an annual tradition.
Whether you choose to cut your own tree, choose real or artificial, you can expect to pay more this year.
According to the American Christmas Tree Association, real trees are up about 10% over last year.
Taking the average price up to between $80-$100.
"We prepare for Christmas year-round. It started at the beginning of November when we're getting all the Christmas trees in and the wreaths made and garlands made," Kevin Gray said.
Gray and his family own Hickory Creek Farm in Guilford County and have been growing Christmas trees for more than a century.
He says despite the rising cost of a real tree, they remain the most environmentally-friendly option.
"The real tree absolutely is worth it! They are a little more expensive in the last couple years. Prices have gone up a little bit with inflation, but it's still a much better deal when you consider all the benefits for the environment," Gray said.
If you do choose an artificial tree this year, you will likely pay more as well.
Even for the viral tree that has taken over social media this year comes with a 350 dollar price tag.
Experts say inflation is the primary driver behind all of the price increases.
Including the cost of materials to maintain local tree farms.
According to the American Christmas Tree Association, 78% of consumers are expressing concerns about inflation.
However 94 percent of those surveyed still plan to put up at least one Christmas Tree this year.
There is some good news, after years of tree shortages, farmers say there will be plenty of trees this season.
"This year the only problem we have is in the big trees, anything 11 feet or over, 11 to 15 foot tall trees. It is a smaller customer group that's going to look for those, but we are short on really big trees. In the size that everybody really gets, the 6 to 9 foot we have a great selection, plenty of trees available," Gray said.