Artificial Can't Compete, Real Trees Take The Holiday Crown

The debate over authentic vs artificial Christmas trees comes up every year. While artificial trees are easier and cheaper in the long run, the tradition, aesthetic, and environmental benefits that come with picking out a real tree are priceless.

The timeless tradition of picking out the perfect tree and bringing it home each year is unmatched. From walking through the rows of a family-owned tree farm and hauling it home to decorating with family and friends, the experience of a real tree creates memories that last a lifetime. And anyway, what is Christmas if not a day full of tradition? On top of that, no fake tree can match the charm of a living one. The smell of fresh pine, the uniqueness of each tree, and its natural look are truly irreplaceable.

If the sentimental aspects aren't enough to sway you, consider how harmful artificial trees are to the environment. Making just one 6.5 foot tree produces almost 88 pounds of greenhouse gases, that's more than double the carbon footprint of a real tree. This means that it would take about 7-10 years for an artificial tree’s carbon output to break even with the environmental friendliness of a natural tree. And statistically, the majority of families that go the fake tree route replace theirs every 6 years! 

Artificial trees may be convenient, but they can’t match the tradition, beauty, and eco-friendly benefits of a living Christmas tree. Real trees bring warmth, holiday spirit, and a connection to nature that plastic simply can’t replicate. Clearly, the crown goes to the real thing.