Real and Artificial Christmas Tree: What is Your Best Choice

If you can't decide whether a real or artificial tree is best for your Christmas celebration, read this blog post.

This holiday season, you may be wondering whether it's better to get a real or an artificial Christmas tree. But what kind of tree is best? Real or artificial?

Introduction

It is the Christmas season! The time of year when people put up trees in their homes and workplaces to show their holiday spirit.Here, we'll weigh the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice for your family.

Real vs. Artificial Trees

One of the big debates during Christmas time is whether it is better to have a real or artificial tree. 

There are pros and cons for both sides, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Consider the following when making your decision:

1. Cost

  • Artificial trees are generally more expensive up front, but over the years, they will end up costing less than real trees. 

  • Real trees must be bought every year, and the price usually goes up each year. In addition, you have to pay for water and tree stands for real trees, which can add to the cost.

2. Ease of Use

  • Artificial trees are much easier to set up and take down than real trees. They come in sections that fit together, and most are pre-lit, so you don’t have to worry about stringing lights. 

  • Real trees can be difficult to set up, especially if they are large, and you have to be careful not to damage them when taking them down. You also have to string your own lights on a real tree.

3. Longevity

An artificial tree will last for many years with proper care, whereas a real tree only lasts one season.

4. Allergies

If anyone in your family has allergies, a real tree might not be the best choice because they can trigger allergies. Artificial trees are generally hypoallergenic.

5. Safety

  • Real trees can be a fire hazard if they are not watered properly or if they are left up for too long after Christmas. 

  • Artificial trees are made of fire retardant materials and are not flammable.

The Pros and Cons of Real Trees

When it comes to holiday cheer, there’s nothing that gets people in the spirit like a real Christmas tree. 

The aroma of pine filling your home brings back memories of Christmases past and creates new traditions for years to come. 

But when it comes time to choose a tree, you may be wondering if a real one is the best option. 

Here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision:

1. Pros

  • Real trees are environmentally friendly. They are a renewable resource that is grown specifically for the holiday season.

  • Nothing compares to the smell of a real tree in your home.

  • You can recycle your real tree when you’re done with it. Many communities offer tree recycling programs where the trees are turned into mulch or used as habitat for wildlife.

  • Real trees support farmers and the economy. When you buy a real tree, you are supporting farmers who grow them.

2. Cons

  • Real trees can be messy. Pine needles can be difficult to clean up and they can also be a fire hazard if not disposed of properly.

  • They can be expensive. Real trees typically cost more than artificial ones upfront, although they can be recycled and used again next year.

  • They only last for a few weeks. Once Christmas is over, you have to find a way to dispose of your tree or find somewhere to store it until next year

The Pros and Cons of Artificial Trees

  • An artificial tree will last you many years (provided you take care of it), and it comes in a wide variety of styles and colors. You can buy an artificial tree that’s pre-lit, which will save you the hassle of stringing lights, and many come with built-in features like rotating stands.

  • On the downside, an artificial tree can be expensive—particularly if you go for a high-end model. It’s also not as eco-friendly as a real tree since it’s not biodegradable and you’ll likely have to dispose of it in a landfill when it finally starts to show its age.

Which is More Environmentally Friendly?

The debate between real and artificial Christmas trees is one that has been around for years. 

Many people have strong opinions about which is the better choice, but the truth is that there are pros and cons to both. 

So, which is the more environmentally friendly option?

Real Christmas trees are a renewable resource. They are grown specifically for the purpose of being harvested and used as Christmas trees. Once they are cut down, new trees are planted to replace them. 

Artificial trees, on the other hand, are made from non-renewable resources like plastic and metal.

Real Christmas trees also tend to be less expensive than artificial trees in the long run. 

An artificial tree will last for about 10 years before it needs to be replaced. A real tree can be reused for many years if it is properly cared for.

However, there are some drawbacks to real Christmas trees as well. They can be messy, as they shed their needles, and they can be a fire hazard if they are not kept watered. Artificial trees do not have these problems.

In the end, the decision of whether to choose a real or artificial tree is a personal one. 

There are benefits and drawbacks to both options. Consider your own needs and preferences before making your decision.

How to Choose the Best Christmas Tree for Your Home

When it’s time to decorate for the holidays, you may be wondering whether it’s better to choose a real or artificial Christmas tree.

Here are a few things to consider that will help you make the best decision for your home.

  • The first thing you need to think about is if you want a live tree that will last for the entire season or an artificial tree that can be used year after year. 

There are benefits and drawbacks to both choices.

A live tree is a great option if you want the authentic experience of having a real Christmas tree in your home. 

Many people enjoy the smell of a fresh-cut tree and the tradition of choosing and cutting down their own tree. 

However, live trees can be more expensive than artificial trees and require more care. 

You’ll need to water your tree daily and make sure it doesn’t dry out, which can be a challenge if you have a busy schedule. 

You also need to be careful not to damage the roots when you replant your tree after Christmas.

  • An artificial tree is a good choice if you want a low-maintenance option that will last for many years.

Artificial trees are now made from materials that look and feel very realistic, so they can give you the same experience as a real tree without the hassle of caring for it. 

However, artificial trees can be expensive up front and they may not last as long as a realtree if they’re not properly cared for.

Once you’ve decided whether you want a real or artificial tree, the next step is to choose the perfect one for your home. 

If you go with a realtree, make sure to pick one that is fresh and has vibrant green needles. 

Avoid trees with brown needles or ones that drop needles easily when touched—these are signs that the tree is already drying out and won’t last long indoors. 

When choosing an artificial tree, look for one that is made from high-quality materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic or PVC so it looks realistic and feels sturdy. 

Also, check the height and width of the tree to make sure it will fit in your chosen spot without blocking any walkways or doorways in your home.

Whether you choose a real or artificial tree, taking some time to find the perfect one for your home will help ensure that you enjoy decorating forChristmas this year!

Tips for Caring for Your Real Christmas Tree

A real Christmas tree can be a beautiful addition to your holiday decorations, but it does require some care and attention. 

Follow these tips to keep your tree healthy and looking its best throughout the holidays.

  • When you first bring your tree home, cut off about two inches from the base of the trunk. This will help the tree absorb water more efficiently.

  • Place your tree in a stand that holds at least a gallon of water. Check the water level daily and add more as needed. A tree can absorb up to a gallon of water per day, so don’t let the stand run dry.

  • Place your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents, and TV sets. These can cause the needles to dry out and fall off prematurely.

  • When the holidays are over, promptly remove your tree from the house and dispose of it properly. Many municipalities offer curbside pick-up for Christmas trees or you can take it to a recycling center.

Tips for Caring for Your Artificial Christmas Tree

Here are some tips for taking care of your artificial Christmas tree:

  • Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before setting up your tree.

  • Be sure to set up your tree in a stable and level location.

  • When putting up lights, be sure to use only lights that are specifically approved for use with artificial trees.

  • Inspect your lights each year before putting them on the tree, and discard any light strands that are damaged or frayed.

  • Be careful not to overcrowd your outlets when plugging in multiple light strands.

  • When taking down your tree, be sure to unplug the lights and carefully remove them from the branches before disassembling the tree.

  • Never store your artificial tree in an attic or basement – extreme temperatures can damage it.

  • If possible, store your tree in its original packaging or in a large plastic bag to keep it clean and dust-free until next year

How to Recycle or Dispose of Your Christmas Tree

Whether you have an artificial or real Christmas tree, once the holidays are over, you need to find a way to recycle or dispose of your tree. 

Most municipalities have a special pick up day or location for Christmas trees, or you can take it to a recycling center that accepts yard waste.

Here are some tips on how to recycle or dispose of your Christmas tree:

  • Check with your municipality to see if they have a special pick up day or location for Christmas trees.

  • Take your tree to a recycling center that accepts yard waste.

  • Cut up your tree and use it as firewood.

  • Turn your tree into mulch by chipping it yourself or taking it to a chipping service.

If you're still on the fence about whether a real or artificial tree is best for your home this holiday season, consider the above pros and cons. 

Real trees are environmentally friendly, but they require more care and maintenance than their fake counterparts. Artificial trees don't last as long as real trees, but they're much easier to take care of in the long run. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between a real or artificial Christmas tree is a personal one. What's most important is that you find a tree that brings joy to your home during the holidays.

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Casey Fox
Casey Fox
Casey Fox is a fourth-year student of Home Arts, with three years of writing experience. A lover of outdoor activities, Casey especially enjoys mountain climbing. She started writing in her second year of university as a way to document and share her experiences with others.