Gardening Know-How
Holiday Tree Debate: Real or Fake?
Every holiday season, there's one argument that arises again and again: which type of Christmas tree is better – real or fake? You can find a wide selection of both real and artificial holiday trees at our stores across the country. Here are the benefits of buying artificial or the real thing to help you choose which is best for you.
Why Choose an Artificial Tree?
- Artificial trees can be reused and last up to 10 years, saving you the cost of buying a new tree every holiday
- Artificial trees are easier to set up and require no maintenance – you don't have to water or worry about messy clean-up of needles or dripping sap
- Artificial trees provide less of a fire hazard and you're guaranteed your tree won't die before the holiday season is over
- The Home Depot offers a variety of artificial trees that coordinate with other holiday décor items such as wreaths, garlands and display items
- Many artificial trees come equipped with lights, saving you the time required to hang your own
Why Choose a Real Tree?
- A Christmas tree is a renewable resource; it's biodegradable and can be recycled
- Real trees evoke a traditional sense of home during the holidays with their evergreen aroma and feel
- Shopping for a real tree can be turned into a fun family tradition
- Each real tree is unique and you can select a different type (e.g. Fraser, Balsam, Douglas) or style each year
- The price of a real tree is less expensive than the initial cost of an artificial tree
Caring For Your Real Christmas Tree
- Displaying trees in water in a traditional reservoir-type stand is the most effective way to maintain freshness and minimize needle loss
- When you arrive home, place the tree in water as soon as possible and use a stand to keep your tree from tipping
- Don't whittle down the sides of a tree trunk to fit a stand; the outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed
- Keep displayed trees away from sources of heat to prevent your tree from drying out too quickly
- Consider using a small wire to anchor your tree to a corner wall for stability
- Check the stand daily to make sure the water level does not go below the base of the tree – trees drink as much as four litres of water a day
- Always turn off tree lights when leaving the house or going to bed
- Recycle your Christmas tree after the holidays through a community program
