Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: A Cost Comparison

Evaluating the Cost of [Natural vs Synthetic] Christmas Trees

The festive season is nearing. Children are penning their lists for Santa, shops are filling their aisles with treats, and many are contemplating which type of Christmas tree to purchase. Are natural or synthetic Christmas trees superior? Which variety should you select? Well, that ultimately depends on your preferences! Let’s dissect which (natural or synthetic) Christmas tree will bring the most enchantment to you and your loved ones this holiday season.

 

Discussing Costs

 

What is the Price of Natural Christmas Trees? 

At present, Home Depot offers 4′-6′ live trees priced from $65-$110. Local Christmas tree farms charge based on height, with the nationwide average cost being $78 for a tree between 7′-8′ and increasing for taller trees. In 2018, 32.8 million individuals bought natural trees, marking a 20% rise from 2017. The National Christmas Tree Association disclosed a 17% hike in natural tree prices from 2015-2017 due to eco-friendly consumers choosing to shop locally.

 

What is the Price of Synthetic Christmas Trees?

Synthetic Christmas trees vary in cost depending on size, quality, and features like pre-installed lights. In 2018, the average expense for a synthetic tree was $104. Presently, Home Depot offers 7.5′ Pre-Lit LED trees starting at $159, with prices rising based on additional features. A notable benefit of buying a synthetic Christmas tree is timing your purchase. Good Housekeeping notes the best deals occur in the first half of December or post-season. According to the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA), the yearly cost of purchasing a new live Christmas tree is thrice that of buying a single synthetic Christmas tree. If budget is your primary concern, a synthetic tree might be the ideal choice for you.

 

Additional Factors to Consider When Buying a Christmas Tree

 

Durability

With proper care, a natural Christmas tree can last around four to six weeks. If not kept sufficiently hydrated or placed in less-than-ideal conditions (too close to a heat source or pre-cut and frozen for weeks before brought home), it can dry out sooner, increasing its fire risk.

Pro-Tip: Water (and only water) is the most effective way to keep your tree hydrated longer. Purdue University Forestry and Natural Resources advises that a 7′ tree can consume up to two quarts of water daily for the first fortnight after being cut, and that using additives or preservatives does not prolong the tree’s lifespan.

Many Americans intend to keep their synthetic trees for ten years; however, on average, their usable lifespan is six years. It’s advisable to investigate the manufacturer and product quality before making a purchase. Synthetic trees can endure for years and often come with warranties ranging from 1 to 10 years. Different warranties have varying coverage, so check with the retailer to understand the specifics.

 

Allergy Concerns

Natural trees can expose you to allergens from sap, pollen, or mold. If you prefer a natural tree but are concerned about allergies, Leland Cypress trees do not produce pollen and might be a suitable choice. Generally, however, synthetic trees are the most hypoallergenic option since they are made from plastic and metal.

 

Environmental Impact

When it comes to recyclability, natural Christmas trees have the edge. Nearly93 percent of real Christmas trees are recycled annually. Being biodegradable and renewable, you can recycle it in your own yard for wildlife, convert it to mulch, or submerge it in a pond or lake to provide shelter for smaller fish. Major cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York offer free tree-recycling services.

Since synthetic Christmas trees are often made with metal, PVC, and contain flame retardants, they cannot be recycled. The chemicals in PVC may have harmful levels of lead, posing risks to children and pets who might ingest dust or other residues from the tree.

Summary

Having compared the upfront costs of natural and synthetic Christmas trees, are natural or synthetic Christmas trees superior? Consider the following aspects when deciding which tree suits you best. Ask yourself the following questions:

Time

Do you have the time to water and care for a natural tree?

Expense

Can you consistently spend $70-$100 per year on a real tree?

Allergy Potential

Will the tree you choose cause any allergy issues for you?

Recyclability

How important is it to you that your tree can be recycled at the end of its lifecycle?

 

Whether you’re cutting it down or unboxing it, make sure your tree impresses your visitors with the perfect blend of Christmas ornaments! Discover our collection of trending ornaments, including Angel Ornaments,Cat Ornaments,Dog Ornaments, andNutcracker Ornaments. And as always, Happy Holidays from your friends at Gift All Season!

 

What type of Christmas tree will you be putting up this year? Share with us in the comments below!