When Thanksgiving ends, it comes time for families to put up their Christmas lights, set out the stockings and advent calendars, and put a wreath up on the door. Most notably, and semi-oddly, it comes time for families to bring a tree into their home and decorate it. Originally, families would go to Christmas tree farms and cut down a tree from their or cut down a tree from their own property. However, fake trees have begun to spring up as an alternative. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Real trees (Advantages):

Cutting down Christmas trees actually helps the environment in the long run, though it may not directly seem like it. For each Christmas tree that is cut down, 1-3 are planted in its place. Real trees are recyclable, making them even more environmentally friendly. Real trees are also traditional, which can be greatly appealing to some, as it offers the experience of picking out a tree and cutting it down with ones family and/or friends.

Real Trees (Disadvantages):

Real trees are costly, ranging from $20-$200 a year, unlike artificial trees, which are a one-time purchase. Real trees need constant care; they need to be watered constantly and their needles fall so the areas around the tree have to be swept quite often.

Artificial Trees (Advantages):

Fake trees are efficient; they are usually stored in an attic or basement so they are easily accessible. Artificial trees are also less costly, as was mentioned earlier. They are used year after year, so they are a better financial investment. Fake trees are clean and simple, not much has to be done after the tree is set up.

Artificial Trees (Disadvantages):

Artificial trees are not recyclable, thus making them significantly less environmentally healthy. Fake trees catch fire much faster than real trees, making them a greater fire hazard.

In the end, however, whether one buys a real or fake Christmas tree, it is the holiday spirit that comes with it that really makes a difference. The type of tree one buys is significant during the holiday season, but, when Christmas Day arrives, the type of tree one has will not matter too much anymore, not when there are presents underneath it.