Artificial vs. Natural: Pros and Cons of Both Tree Types

As long as Christmas trees have been a part of the holiday season, so, too, has been the debate over real or man-made trees. Each side has its supporters and detractors, and both have real and man-made Christmas trees have their pros and cons. When deciding whether or not to go to the nearby tree farm or the department store for your holiday tree this season, consider the following factors.

What Will a Natural Tree Cost? Natural trees can vary in price depending on where you go. Prices can range from less than $20 to more than $50. When making the decision, it's important to keep in mind that a tree does not last very long, and therefore investing too much money might not be the best way to spend your money. However, there are options to purchase real trees with the root ball intact, which enables homeowners to plant the tree in their yard after the season.

What Will an Artificial Tree Cost? Artificial trees will initially have a higher price tag than their natural counterparts. However, they are also more cost-effective because they can be used for several years after their initial purchases. There is also no need to purchase accessories such as tree stands and watering devices with an artificial tree, which are typically necessary with a natural tree.

How Easily Can a Natural Tree Be Moved? The Christmas tree lot or farm does take steps to make it easier to lift and move the tree, but there's still the challenge of getting it home. Many, whether driving a car or SUV, choose to put the tree on the roof of their vehicle, but then worry about the tree blowing off on the highway. Then there’s the issue of getting the tree through the doorway, an especially difficult task for homeowners with older homes, where doorways are often much smaller compared to newer homes. Bring the tree into the home can also leave trails of pine needles from the car to house. That's a problem that can still be around throughout the year, as those pesky pine needles can be difficult to banish.

How Easily Can an Artificial Tree Be Moved? Clearly, artificial trees are more advantageous when it comes to moving them. Because they're often boxed, these trees are lightweight and easy to maneuver into the house. Whether a house is old or new really does not matter when it comes to an artificial tree thanks to the packaging.

What Does a Natural Tree Look Like? Supporters feel a natural tree is much more aesthetically appealing. However, those buying late might be stuck with all that's left, long after the more desirable trees have found a living room in which to spend the season.

What Does an Artificial Tree Look Like? While some like the real look of a natural tree, others like their holiday tree to be perfect, with none of the warts of a natural tree. Artificial trees, unless poorly produced, have no warts, as they're man made. Also, an artificial tree guarantees its owners the same look each and every holiday season.

What Is the Environmental Impact of a Natural Tree? Natural trees are actually much more environmentally friendly than they initially appear. Christmas trees are planted for the express purpose of the holiday season, and large numbers of new trees are planted each year to replenish the stock in an environmentally friendly way. In addition, once the season has ended, many trees are recycled and used as sand and soil erosion barriers.

What Is the Environmental Impact of Artificial Trees? Artificial trees often come with a host of safety warnings. That's because they are made from a variety of materials, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and metals, which can put toxins into the air during production. That is why there are lead warning labels on some artificial trees. Artificial tree buyers must be careful of erecting artificial trees in homes with small children or pets, as consumption can be toxic. Another thing to consider is that many artificial trees cannot be recycled, so there is no environmentally friendly way of disposing of them when homeowners decide it's time to replace them.