5 Christmas tree farms near New Orleans where you can chop down your own tree

Worth noting: Louisiana has been in a drought for months. At least one tree farm in Kentwood isn't opening for the season.

• "Tree care will be very important this year," Country Pines Christmas Tree Farm told customers on Facebook.
• "Due to the extremely low amounts of water they've received and significant heat this year, they may likely drink more water than usual."

How it works: The farms usually open the Friday after Thanksgiving and go until they are sold out.

• Tree varieties differ at each farm, but the Leyland cypress is a common type.
• Some farms are cash only or charge fees if you use a credit card. Many have gift shops.

What's happening: Here are several nearby farms from the Southern Christmas Tree Association. Check farm hours before you go.

• Country Pines Christmas Tree Farm: 81332 Jim Sharp Road, Covington.
• Tiger Branch Christmas Trees: 18075 Tiger Branch Road, Covington.
• Shady Pond Tree Farm: 37226 Pine St. Ext., Pearl River.
• Easterling Farm Christmas Trees: 64415 Travis Thomas Road, Angie.
• Steele's Christmas Tree Farm: 56459 Dollar Road, Angie.

Go deeper:

• More Louisiana Christmas tree farms
• Plant a tree in New Orleans now to beat the summer heat