A Balanced Guide to Choosing Your Christmas Tree
The holiday symbol of a Christmas Tree and decorating it with stored away treasures is a tradition that brings me much joy. The memories each holiday tree brings, both old and yet to be made, warm my heart. Whether you love the scent of a fresh-cut fir or the convenience of an artificial tree, there are pros and cons to both. Let’s dive into the costs, sustainable considerations and traditions that make each option special.
Finding What Works for Your Budget
Table top artificial tree I’ve had for 10 years.
When it comes to cost, artificial trees can feel like the more budget-friendly option. While the one-time investment can range greatly and be an initial budget burden, they can last for many years. Over time, that’s money saved, but only if they’re stored properly in a dry space and can withstand moves, if needed.
Real trees can offer a bit more flexibility, but buying from a lot or farm can also range in price from moderate to expensive and those yearly purchases can add up. However, if you are lucky enough to live near a forest where cutting your own tree is permitted, the cost could be just a small permit fee and offer a fun adventure.
Environmental Impact
Artificial trees are made from materials like PVC and metal which take a lot of energy to produce. Add in shipping, often from overseas, and their carbon footprint grows. Experts say it takes about ten to twenty years of reuse for an artificial tree to balance out its environmental impact compared to buying a real tree every year. Opting for the artificial route, you should plan to use it for the long haul for low ecological cost.
Real trees, on the other hand, are often grown on farms where they absorb carbon dioxide and provide a habitat for wildlife. Tree farms support local farmers and provide seasonal jobs. When the holidays are over, a real tree can be composted or turned into mulch, completing a natural cycle. Of course, farming practices, transporting trees to lots and disposing of them still has an impact, but it’s often smaller and more localized.
The Magic
There’s something special about having a real tree in your home. It brings a natural energy and a sense of connection to the outdoors. For my family, cutting down our own tree was always a cherished ritual. After the tree was felled, we’d kiss the stump and thank it for its beauty and the memories it would help create that year. It’s a small act of gratitude that honors the life it gave.
Holiday tree 2022 and Barley
On the other hand, artificial trees offer unmatched convenience. Pre-lit options save time and effort, allowing you to skip the frustrating task of untangling lights. The ease of set-up lets us jump straight to decorating and enjoying the season, without the hassle of cleaning up fallen needles or keeping the tree stand filled with water. While they might lack the energy of a real tree, their ease and reliability are a real and sometimes needed kind of magic.
What Matter Most
At the end of the day, what makes a holiday tree magical are the traditions you create around it. Choosing between a real and an artificial tree depends on what matters most to you and both options have the potential to be a sustainable choice. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and that’s okay. Whether it’s a yearly family photo by the tree or adding a new ornament each year, these rituals make your tree, real or artificial, uniquely yours.