Because of the financial crisis of 2008, it’s going to be hard to find a tall Christmas tree this year.

That’s according to Kyle Meidell, assistant Scoutmaster with Bainbridge Island Troop 1565, which is selling trees in the parking lot near Ace Hardware on High School Road.

Trees cost $10 a foot with prices between $50 and $60. The lot will be open from 4-7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends while supplies last.

Meidell said as people start looking for the perfect tree to decorate their homes, they will find it difficult to locate a towering one.

The shrinking tree problem started about 12 years ago, “because there were fewer trees planted during the financial crisis of 2008,” he said. “So, now, many years later, we don’t have any 10- to 12-foot trees.”

Scout mom Suzanne Zapf said the situation has worsened, and tree growth has also been slowed by hot weather. “Heatwaves are impacting the growth rate negatively.”

Meidell shared a couple of tips to make the most of your tree. “If you get a shorter tree, put it up on a box and cover the box with some nice decoration.”

Some benefits of elevating the tree makes it easier to water without crawling underneath the limbs, and it makes for a nicer space for presents. He also suggested using a sturdy wooden box, as opposed to a cardboard one.

To keep your tree fresh during the season, give it plenty of water and keep it cool. Place it away from heat vents and add plant food during waterings.