Christmas Tree O' Christmas Tree

At this time of year, among my friends, the debate comes up as to whether a fake Christmas tree or a real Christmas tree is more environmentally friendly. The arguments range from "real trees smell good," to "a fake tree can last you years." So, in attempts to figure out this dilemma, I've posted some information about each type below (taken from ourbetternature.org).

NOTE: There is a lot of info below, so skim if you have to, but be sure to read the last two paragraphs... they've got the real message.

ARTIFICIAL TREES typically cost $100 - $1200. PROS: An artificial tree is convenient. They don’t need water or shed needles, and can be left up for as long as you like. Newer trees have softer needles, are more realistic and easier to assemble – some even come pre-lit. They don’t violate fire codes for public buildings. If you forget to take an ornament off, it will be there next year. They don’t need to be disposed of until the end of their life, which might be about six years. CONS: An estimated 85% of fake trees are manufactured in factories in China, where working conditions are far from ideal. They are made from petroleum products, and petroleum is a nonrenewable resource. The majority are not recyclable, and will not decompose in a landfill any faster than other plastics. In one study, 33% of artificial trees tested contained lead in their needles. Not all are fire-resistant, and fires are usually caused by the lights anyway. Space is needed for storage during the off-season. They may accumulate dust and mold that trigger allergies. They are artificial, and often look it.

REAL CUT TREES cost about $35-$100. PROS: Selecting and cutting a live tree can be a family tradition. There are many sizes and varieties to choose from, some of which are fragrant. They are a renewable crop grown on a farm. 21,000 tree farmers nationwide help sustain the economy, providing about 100,000 jobs, while maintaining 500,000 acres of open space. Although they are cut, just like trees harvested to make holiday cards and newspaper, one to three new seedlings are planted in each cut tree’s place to provide a steady supply for the future. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, 40-45 million Christmas Trees were planted in 2007. During the 7 to 15 years it takes to reach maturity, the trees emit oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide which helps the climate, and provide habitat for wildlife. They are biodegradable and recyclable (e.g., for mulch). CONS: Some varieties have prickly needles. Pesticides are typically used to keep them healthy until harvest. Some people are allergic to mold or pollen on trees. Cut trees can only be left up for a maximum of six weeks if kept watered after cutting. If they are not watered, or were cut months ago in Canada, they can pose a fire risk, and dropped needles can make a mess. At the end of the season, the tree needs to be transported somewhere for recycling, unless you can leave in the back of on your own property as wildlife shelter.

SO... Does that make it any clearer? For me personally, not really. I still prefer the live tree, and have to always remember that there are pro's and con's to any choice. HOWEVER, I would love to tell you all about a Christmas I spent with my parents a couple years ago. My brothers were all off with their wives' families, and I wasn't married yet, so it was a quiet holiday with my Mom and Dad. Rather than going all out for a tree, my mom and I decided to break tradition. My parents live in California, and had been planning on planting a couple avocado trees in their backyard. So, rather than getting an evergreen, we opted for two avocado trees instead. We positioned the pots close together to give us a fuller look, covered it with the Christmas tree skirt we always use, added some avocado colored ornaments and lights and viola! A Christmas Avocado Tree! After the holidays, I helped my dad dig a couple holes and we planted the trees in the backyard. I know for a fact that every year I've been alive we've had a Christmas tree, but the tree I remember is the avocado... and now we get to eat them too!

Bottom line... Whatever you choose, remember to keep in mind what is important to you and what is good for the environment. Awareness is key! If you feel strongly to keep on the tradition of the live tree, do it, there are good arguments for it. If you love Aunt Hilda's fake pink tree that was passed on to you, kudos for reusing. If you don't mind being nontraditional, inventory what trees and shrubs you'd like in your yard and have your Christmas Tree serve two purposes. Or, if you are really creative, try out one of the tree's below!