Christmas Trees | Real vs. Artificial | Which is Better?
It’s that time of year again! Time to start thinking about Christmas trees. Do you go with a real tree, or do you go with an artificial tree? Both have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which one is the best option for your family. We will take a look at the pros and cons of both types of trees, so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Here are a few things to consider as you think through your decision:
Aesthetics
One of the biggest pros of a real Christmas tree is its beautiful, natural appearance. However, many people find that the needles can be messy and difficult to clean up after. Artificial trees, on the other hand, are often made to look very realistic and typically require less upkeep than their natural counterparts.
Environmental impact
Real trees come with an environmental cost – they must be grown and harvested each year, which requires land and resources. On the other hand, artificial trees are generally made from plastic materials that take a long time to break down in landfills or recycling facilities. While there is no clear winner when it comes to environmental impact, it’s important to consider your priorities as you make your decision.
Cost
Both types of trees come with different price tags. Real trees tend to be more affordable, although they can require a bit of maintenance to keep them looking nice. Artificial trees, on the other hand, are often more expensive upfront but can last for several years if properly taken care of. Real Christmas trees can cost anywhere from $50-$500, while artificial trees typically start around $100 and can cost much more depending on the size and quality of the tree. Keep in mind that artificial trees can be reused, so your upfront cost of an artificial tree will be spread out over a number of years, while the cost of a real tree will come up every December.
Experience
Buying a real Christmas tree an be an experience in of it self. Whether you get to pick the tree from a local lot or if you can actually go cut down a tree of your choice, getting a real tree can be part of the fun for many families. As opposed to having an artificial tree where you just have to pull the tree out of storage, unpack it, and set it up.
Safety
Another important consideration when choosing a Christmas tree is safety. Real trees typically require some sort of stand to keep them upright and stable, which can increase the risk of tip-overs if not properly secured. Artificial trees are generally more stable, as they do not need to be watered or repositioned over time. Real trees must be constantly watered to avoid becoming a fire hazard. Dry tree needles are very flammable.
Storage
Finally, when it comes time to take down your Christmas decorations, you will need to store your tree. Real trees can be composted or recycled once the holiday season is over, while artificial trees usually have to be stored in a closet until next year’s holiday season rolls around. Artificial trees tend to be big and odd-shaped, so if you don’t have much extra storage at your home, you may want to consider a real tree.
Durability
Real trees will last for the month of December, while artificial trees can last for many years. However, it is important to remember that artificial trees can only be used for a certain number of years before they start to look obviously fake and may need to be replaced.
So, which type of Christmas tree is right for you? Whether you prioritize aesthetics, cost, or experience, there truly is no “right” answer – it all comes down to what’s most important to you and your family!
Real Christmas trees have a warm, festive feel that can’t be beat. They are a great way to get into the holiday spirit and help create memories with your family. However, they do require regular maintenance and care, including watering and cleaning up fallen needles.
Artificial Christmas trees also have their advantages. They are typically cheaper than real trees, and you don’t have to worry about them drying out or dropping needles all over your house. However, some people find them less authentic than real trees, and they can be less visually appealing as well.
In the end, it’s up to you to decide what type of tree is best for your family. Whether you choose a real or artificial tree, the most important thing is that you enjoy the holiday season and make memories together!
