Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: Pros and Cons

As the festive season approaches, the annual debate returns: Should you go for a real Christmas tree or opt for an artificial one? 

Both choices have their unique appeal and drawbacks, from their impact on the environment to the overall Christmas aesthetic. 

Here, we’ll look at the pros and cons of both options to help you decide on the best tree for your holiday celebrations.

Real Christmas Trees

Pros:

Authentic Festive Atmosphere

Nothing beats the smell of a real Christmas tree. The fresh pine scent fills the room with a distinctive aroma that many feel is an essential part of the Christmas experience. Real trees bring a natural beauty and unique charm to any space.

Eco-Friendly (with Responsible Sourcing)

Real trees are grown specifically for the purpose of being harvested, so they are generally sustainable if sourced responsibly. After Christmas, many communities offer tree recycling programmes, allowing trees to be turned into mulch or compost rather than ending up in a landfill.

Supports Local Farmers

Purchasing a real tree often supports local tree farms and smaller businesses. These farms frequently plant more trees than they cut down each year, helping offset their carbon footprint.

Cons:

Maintenance Required

Real trees require a good deal of maintenance. They need regular watering to stay fresh and reduce the risk of shedding needles everywhere, which can be inconvenient to clean up. As the weeks go on, even a well-maintained tree will begin to drop needles.

Short Lifespan

Real trees typically last four to six weeks, so they’re not ideal for those who like to start decorating in early November. Once the festive period ends, disposing of a real tree can be a hassle unless you have access to a recycling programme.

Allergens

For some, real trees can trigger allergies. Mould spores, pollen, and sap can cause reactions, especially indoors, which can detract from the festive enjoyment.

Artificial Christmas Trees

Pros:

Low Maintenance

Artificial trees don’t require any watering or needle clean-up, making them an attractive choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance option. They’re easy to set up and pack away, and they won’t dry out over time.

Reusable

An artificial tree can last for many years if properly stored, making it a more economical option in the long run. This reusability can also reduce waste, as a single artificial tree can be used for many holiday seasons.

Versatile Options

Artificial trees come in a wide range of colours, styles, and sizes, including pre-lit options. You can even find trees that mimic snow-covered branches or have various decorations, allowing for greater personalisation.

Cons:

Environmental Impact

Despite their reusability, artificial trees are typically made from PVC and other plastics, which are non-biodegradable and require significant resources to manufacture. They also have a large carbon footprint due to production and shipping, especially if they’re imported.

Lack of Authenticity

No matter how high-quality, artificial trees can’t replicate the fresh scent or texture of a real tree. Some people find that the synthetic look and feel of artificial trees don’t evoke the same holiday magic.

Storage Space

Once Christmas is over, artificial trees require a fair amount of storage space, and storing them improperly can lead to wear and tear over time, making them less attractive and potentially shortening their lifespan.

Which Tree is Right for You?

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your lifestyle, environmental priorities, and personal preferences. If you value authenticity and supporting sustainable practices, a real tree might be the better choice. For those seeking convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a reusable option, an artificial tree might be the answer.

Whether real or artificial, your Christmas tree is about creating memories, and that holiday magic can be found in both. So go with the option that best aligns with your values – and enjoy a season filled with cheer.