Why a Real Christmas Tree Is the Right Choice

There is something timeless about the charm of a real, live Christmas tree. Throughout the years, people from all generations hold cherished memories of choosing a genuine, lush Christmas trees together with their families. Choosing the right tree can be a defining and crucial moment for kicking off the holiday season right. It’s a tradition that has withstood the test of time, and for good reason. What some people might not know is that the benefits of opting for a real tree go far beyond that inviting green color and festive fresh scent! Exploring the many reasons for choosing a real Christmas tree for your home is just one way you can be sure to have a truly memorable experience this winter.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing between an artificial or a real tree this holiday season is sustainability. It is possible to enjoy a real tree without worrying about negatively impacting the environment. Most artificial Christmas trees sold in this country are imported from China. This is relevant not only because of the increased emissions from long shipping distances, but also because you’re missing out on supporting domestic farmers. On top of that, artificial trees are typically made with a combination of various nonbiodegradable materials. The manufacturing process of these materials puts more harmful emissions into the environment. A live tree does the exact opposite -- it helps filter out harmful emissions and puts clean oxygen back into the environment, acting like natural air cleansers.

Real Christmas trees are 100% biodegradable and therefore 100% recyclable. Out of the approximately 33 million trees sold in the US annually, 93% of them are recycled thanks to the more than 4000 programs available nationwide. In fact, recycled Christmas trees can be used for several different things. Some places use them to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion. Other places, like nature preservations, use them for similar purposes like wave breaks in open ponds or for creating fish habitats. Valley of the Kings Sanctuary, located in near by Sharon, WI, uses recycled Christmas trees as toys to entertain their lions and tigers! Be sure to check with your local municipality for information regarding their available Christmas tree recycling programs.

If you’re crafty, you can try your own hand at making something from your Christmas tree yourself before you give it up to a recycling program. You can take cuts from the base of the trunks to use as rustic looking coasters, or use these same cuts, drill a hole in the top, and add a hook to make ornaments. Others have set their used tree up in their yard and hung bird feeders on the branches as a place to give wildlife a treat throughout the colder months. Another, more obvious use, is chopping up the tree to use as future firewood for the next campfire season.

Choosing a real tree this season is the first step to ensuring you make the most of “the most wonderful time of the year!” Decorating with a fresh, real tree will guarantee a rewarding and festive experience for all involved. They come in numerous varieties, shapes, and sizes making finding the perfect tree for your individual needs an unforgettable time.