Christmas Tree- Real or Artificial?
Choosing a Christmas Tree- Allergies
Do you have allergies to pollen? Allergies can be one reason to avoid a real tree for Christmas. Trees produce pollen twice a year; in both spring and fall. A live tree might have enough pollen on it to irritate your allergies. If this is the case for you, pick out an artificial tree you know you will enjoy for years to come.
Choosing a Christmas Tree- Thinking Green
An artificial tree will never decompose. If you choose to buy an artificial tree, plan to use it for several years. Once you throw it away it will just hang out in the dump forever. The manufacture of artificial holiday trees releases several chemicals into the atmosphere. Many artificial trees are made using PVC, the production of which releases dioxins. Dioxins are a potential carcinogen. Some artificial trees may also contain lead. Try to choose an artificial tree that is not made with PVC, if possible.
A real tree is recyclable. Christmas trees are typically grown for the purpose of holiday decoration, removing concerns about deforestation. As long as you don't drive far to find your tree, getting a real tree for Christmas is better for the environment. In addition, while the real tree is growing, it reduces carbon dioxide in the air. A real Christmas tree is better for the environment.
Choosing a Christmas Tree- Cost and Aesthetics
The smell of a real tree never fails to put me in a holiday mood. Buying your real Christmas tree from a local tree farm supports the local economy. Depending on your location, and the kind of tree you choose, the price will vary. This year, I've seen most real trees in the Northwest costing a reasonable $20.
An artificial tree will usually cost more than a real tree, but can be used for several years. An average price range for an artificial tree is from $60 to several hundred dollars. One issue you may find if you choose an artificial tree is storage. You will need enough space to put your tree for the majority of the year.
Choosing a Christmas Tree- Pets
Pets may try to eat your artificial tree and this can be dangerous. The artificial needles can bind up in their stomach. For an article describing this, go here.
Choosing a Christmas Tree- Tradition
For many families, going out to hunt for the perfect tree is an annual tradition. A real Christmas tree is the only way for this tradition to exist. Once you have chosen an artificial tree, you will want to use it for several years. If you cannot have a real Christmas tree, you can always make a new tradition. These new traditions could include stringing popcorn to hang on the tree, or making homemade ornaments every year. Homemade ornaments can be lovely, and there are many different kinds.
Tradition is an important part of the holidays. Whether your family tradition is the search for the perfect Christmas tree or making things to hang on your artificial tree, tradition brings your family together. After all, the holidays are about being together with our loved ones!
Sources:
http://www.christmastree.org/faketrees.cfm- National Christmas Tree Association
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_Christmas_tree- Artificial Christmas Tree- Wikipedia
Published by Katie Sharp-Dierks
Katie Sharp-Dierks has been writing ever since she could pick up a pen. A mother of two, she is devoted to both teaching and learning. Katie has a wide variety of interests which include all parenting issues... View profile
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8 Comments
Post a CommentLiving in Colorado where it's very dry, we purchased an artificial tree as we were afraid of a fire. I miss the smell of a real tree, but in the end, I'm glad that we now have an artificial one.
Good topic! I'm addicted to the real thing! I love the smell...it's the smell of Christmas!
Great thoughts about the Christmas tree topic!
We have the debate every year and it always comes out the same: Put up the artificial tree because we can't find enough time together to go and pick out a real one (that sounds really sad, but it isn't as bad as it sounds)!
Great article! We have an artificial tree.
When I used to have a fake tree, I'd always want a real one. Now that we get real ones every year, I want a fake one: one that is prelit! Anything that gives me extra time is a winner! But hubby refuses to budge. He isn't the one that cleans up needles until July. :-/
Hi Katie, I enjoyed reading your article. We have a fiberoptic tree several years ago. It's not a large one, it sets on a round table in front of our picture window. It has not caused any problems. We used to always buy a real tree, but this is so much easier. Thanks for sharing.
Not sure I could ever have a Christmas without a real tree but I can understand the appeal of a fake one!