Which Tree is for Me?
December 8, 2021
![Which Tree is for Me? Feature Image](https://www.metroelectricmichigan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/trees_blogFB.png)
Every year, families celebrating Christmas have to make a choice: real pine, or fake.
Polarizing opinions on which Christmas tree type is best often becomes a hot topic during the holidays, and it leaves many people wondering if it’s time to shake up their tradition. With so many conflicting takes, the decision isn’t easy; however, making an educated choice based on your lifestyle, interests, and home will set you up for evergreen success. Check out the following pros and cons of these holiday centerpieces!
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Real Trees
Pros:
- Real pines come from nearby tree farms, and purchasing them supports the local economy.
- They’re incredibly renewable; for every tree cut down, a new one is planted.
- Making a yearly selection ensures that your tree will be unique every year, and you can always pick one to suit your current living space.
- After being shed, pine needles can be added to the garden or compost as a very helpful fertilizer.
- Nothing can beat a fresh pine scent for the holidays!
Cons:
- You’ll need to water them every day that they’re in your home, and clean up their dropped needles.
- If they’re not properly cared for with water, the dry needles can become a major fire hazard when strung up with electric lights.
- Picking one out and taking it home will take time each year.
- Proper disposal can be difficult (don’t forget to check out our guide on managing your tree after the holidays).
- Costs can stack, since you’re buying a new tree each year.
Artificial trees
Pros:
- Over time, you save money on tree costs, since artificial trees are a one time purchase.
- No risk of dry needles causing a fire hazard in your home.
- Plastic needles won’t shed all over your floor!
- Once you set it up for the holidays, it’s management free.
- There’s no limit on how long you can leave an artificial tree up – you can enjoy them year round, if you’re so inclined.
Cons:
- Most are sourced abroad and shipped in, meaning they don’t support the local economy.
- Made of petroleum, a non-renewable resource.
- Lacks classic authenticity.
- Purchasing one can be a big commitment, since you have to choose one that will suit you for years to come.
- They take up storage space year round when not in use.
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Now that you’re fully informed on the pros and cons, there’s one final note to share: you have the choice to mix up your tree decision each year. You can have a fake tree in storage, but still purchase a real tree for Christmas every now and then, when you want to revisit classic traditions. And no matter the branching path you choose, may your Christmas always be merry!