The average life span of an artificial Christmas tree is six years, whereas you are lucky to get four weeks out of your real Christmas tree, which has taken around 6 years to grow (depending on variety and geographical location).

There are plenty of issues to consider in the debate of an artificial Christmas tree versus a live Christmas tree.

Some things to ponder are:

• Live Christmas trees are a renewable resource
• Artificial Christmas trees are generally made from PVC (petroleum-based)
• Artificial Christmas tree production has recently increased its use of recyclable PVC
• In the past, lead was often used as a stabilizer in PVC, but it is now banned. How old is your artificial tree?
• One entire acre consisting of 2000 Christmas trees creates the oxygen requirements for 18 people.
• Nearly 80 million Christmas trees are planted every year.
• Discarding your real tree needs consideration as it will emit carbon dioxide if burnt or left to decay.
• The biggest downside to a real tree is the messy needle clean up
• The lack of real tree smell, storage, and hassle setting up are the complaints of artificial tree owners.

If you do opt for a real tree this year here are some tips:

• Make a fresh cut at the base of the tree so it can absorb water
• Keep the tree in water all the time - if the base dries out, resin will form and the stop water absorption
• Do not place the tree in direct sunlight
• Arrange a funnel and hose if necessary to aid in the watering of your tree around decorations and presents
• Research has proven aspirin, sugar and other water additives are not necessary - save the aspirin for your hangover.
• Discard the tree in your council’s green waste collection so it is recycled into mulch.

Sources:
The Fight Before Christmas: Real Trees vs. Fakes
The full story on the artificial Christmas trees
Unbelievable Christmas tree facts
Tree care tips

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