It’s that wonderful time of year where we are all seeking that perfect tree that will complete our Christmas celebrations. For most of us, it is a quintessential part of our Christmas tradition making it imperative that we choose the right type of tree for all the family to enjoy.

Many families face difficulties when deciding what tree would be best for them, artificial or real. Like most things in life there are pros and cons to both elements. Here we are going to explore the various concepts of both types of trees and weigh up both the positive and negative factors.

ARTIFICIAL TREES 

Artificial trees look more and more realistic as the years progress, often making it difficult to tell its artificial unless paying significant attention. Here at Polhill Garden Centre we have a wide range of great looking artificial trees, which can be viewed by clicking here. A huge advantage regarding artificial trees is that you do not have to water them, thus meaning that maintenance is virtually non-existent. Secondly, needles will not be dropping off artificial trees meaning that it will not leave your house in a mess.

Another element of consideration is that most artificial trees tend to be cheaper than real trees, meaning that if you purchase an artificial tree you would have more disposable cash to spend on other Christmas decorations or Christmas presents. Our Gift and Toy Departments make for many great presents!

Artificial trees can also be a fantastic solution for those who suffer allergies. An example of this is being allergic to the smell of pine. Another beneficial factor which should be considered is that artificial trees do not rot away or ‘age’. This means that you could in theory use your artificial tree over a period of a few years. Storage is also relatively simple as artificial trees are simple to assemble and pack away. One of the last elements of consideration is that the use of artificial trees means that real trees would not have to be cut down. With sustainability being an ever more important concept, it can be seen to why artificial trees are growing in stature. These are all major reasons to why artificial trees are becoming an ever more prominent choice in people’s homes.

PROS TOWARDS ARTIFICIAL TREES:

• More cost effective
• Flame retardant
• No mess from needles
• Huge assortment to choose from

CONS TOWARDS ARTIFICIAL TREES:

• Can look synthetic
• Can be time consuming to assemble
• Requires storage space to be packed away
• Tend to be made from a non-renewable source: petroleum

REAL CHRISTMAS TREES 

Real Christmas trees are traditional. They are a huge part of a Christmas celebration which wouldn’t be the same without the authenticity of a live tree. Real Christmas trees well and truly encapsulates that natural spirit of Christmas and here at Polhill, we have a handsome selection to choose from this year. Click here to see our range of Christmas trees.

Not only is a real Christmas tree a traditional choice, they also have a fresh scent which is heavily associated with the feeling of Christmas. They also have an advantageous element over an artificial tree which is they can help purify the air in and around our homes. They take in carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases and release fresh and clean oxygen into the atmosphere.

There is a general consensus that cutting down real Christmas trees is a bad thing. However, there are multiple beneficial elements that go under the radar. For example, for every Christmas tree that is cut down another tree is planted to ensure a steady supply year after year. Another factor is that Christmas tree farms help to sustain the rural economy and provide jobs, an element which is endearing in the current economic climate.

There are also some negative factors to consider too. For example, the needles tend to shed and can cause a mess around your home. Secondly, it is not ideal for pets as the fallen needles can cause stomach issues if your pet digests them. Real Christmas trees also must be regularly maintained and that is an element which puts some people off.

Once the Christmas period is over and the tree starts to wither, it will have to be disposed of. This can be tricky for some people who do not have easy access to transportation. Therefore, this can be a major disadvantage over an artificial tree which can be stored away until the following Christmas.

PROS TOWARDS REAL TREES:

• Fresh scent
• Traditional choice
• Releases fresh oxygen into the air
• Harvesting occurs every year
• Helps to sustain jobs and the rural economy

CONS TOWARDS REAL CHRISTMAS TREES:

• Need continuous maintenance
• May not be ideal for those who suffer certain allergies
• Sheds needles
• Less economical
• Can only be left up for a certain period
• Disposing of tree can be time consuming

As can be seen, there are both positive and negative elements which need to be considered with both forms of tree. Ultimately it comes down to a personal choice and to what is more affordable and accessible. Many individuals still have a huge passion for a real tree in order with keeping tradition, an element which would make their Christmas feel most complete. For others, an artificial tree is more practical due to non-existent maintenance and the fact that If stored away properly, can be used for several years. Whatever your choice, you are bound to find your perfect tree here at Polhill Garden Centre with our huge extensive range. Hopefully this mini guide has entailed enough information which enables you to decide in taking home a tree that is perfect for you.