Deciding on a real or artificial Christmas tree is a crucial part of your holiday preparations. Each option comes with its own perks. However, the final choice often hinges on your budget.
Costs go beyond the initial price tag, though. You need to factor in shipping, ongoing maintenance, and environmental impact.
In this article, we will tackle these factors to help you make an informed choice, especially if you are entertaining options like home-delivered Christmas trees.
The Upfront Cost: Real vs Artificial
Let’s get right to it. You will see quite a variation in prices whether you are browsing the web or physically walking into a shop for a Christmas tree. Typically, real ones are less expensive.
An actual tree can cost anywhere from £30 to £80 depending on where you reside as well as size and type. If you are choosing Christmas tree delivery, you should expect an extra cost too.
On the other hand, prices for artificial trees, particularly those that come pre-lit, can be a bit steep. They typically range anywhere from £50 reaching up to £300.
Although this seems like a large cost, faux trees are a one-time expense. They are more economical since they can last several years.
When comparing these pricing points, though, there is more to consider. Although an artificial tree is more expensive, it is designed for frequent use. In contrast, with real trees, you purchase a fresh one each holiday season.
After a few Christmases, your synthetic tree’s cost pays for itself. Yet, over five years, you will likely shell out around £400 on natural trees.
The Convenience Factor
An exciting aspect of modern-day shopping is the rise in Christmas tree delivery services. You can still handpick a real tree from your local farm or corner store.
However, the increasing number of delivery options for both real and faux trees is revolutionising holiday prep.
Ordering a real tree usually involves selecting your preferred choice online and waiting for it to arrive at your doorstep. Some providers even go the extra mile by helping set it up in your home.
Shipping service costs generally range from £10 to £30. This option appeals to households wanting to avoid a tree shedding pine needles in their car. It is a practical solution for keeping the mess to a minimum.
The convenience of artificial tree delivery is similar. It often includes a return policy in case the tree does not meet your standards.
Artificial trees are easier to deliver and arrange as they come boxed. You can also purchase them online, skipping the last-minute tree hunting during the busy festive season.
Environmental and Maintenance Considerations
Beyond the initial expenses and delivery ease, you should consider the upkeep and environmental effects of your choice.
Real trees are often viewed as the eco-friendlier option, provided they are sourced from farms practising sustainable replanting.
They also absorb carbon dioxide during their growth phase, benefiting the environment. After Christmas, they can be recycled into compost or mulch, further enhancing sustainability.
Many local authorities offer free pick-up services to correctly recycle your tree. However, there is a catch. The carbon emissions linked to transporting and disposing of these trees, especially when they end up in landfill sites, are a serious concern.
If this matter worries you, choosing a nearby tree farm and planning for environmentally friendly disposal techniques will help lessen the impact.
On the other hand, synthetic trees raise environmental issues even if they are reusable. Most artificial trees are constructed from non-biodegradable materials, such as PVC.
The production process consumes a lot of energy, often involving factories spread across the globe. Moreover, once thrown away, synthetic trees will occupy landfills for decades, adding to long-term waste.
Real trees require somewhat more attention than other trees. To maintain their freshness, you will have to keep them hydrated and regularly sweep up dropped needles.
Conversely, the care for artificial trees is practically non-existent. Once they are set up, they will look fantastic all season without any upkeep.
The Look, Feel, and Smell
Nothing compares to the scent of a fresh pine tree permeating your living room. Many families find that the Christmas celebration revolves mostly around that aroma.
There is a genuine allure that comes with real trees, a quality that man-made alternatives just cannot replicate. This lies in their tactile texture, non-uniform branches, and minor imperfections.
Artificial trees have advanced, though, in recent years. Nowadays, high-quality choices are shockingly lifelike. Some even replicate the texture and touch of natural pine needles.
Another choice to consider is the pre-lit versions, offering an escape from the annual hassle of stringing lights. Although they lack the distinctive pine scent, perfumed ornaments or sprays can compensate for this.
With faux trees, you have the freedom to pick and choose the style and size that fits your decor. Whether you fancy a tall, slender tree for a small space or a lush, full-bodied one to steal the show, it is all up to you.
Long-Term Costs and Value for Money
Contemplating the future can make the choice between a natural and artificial Christmas tree a tough one.
Initially, artificial trees seem pricey, but they offer excellent value over the years. You will save on costs as you are using the same tree each Christmas, cutting down on continuous purchases.
In contrast, real trees appeal to families who cherish the excitement of picking out a unique tree each season. Some even love the tradition of going to tree farms for their Christmas ritual. Keep in mind, though, that costs can add up over the years.
Emotional worth is another consideration. To some, the annual tradition of picking and decorating a fresh tree is priceless.
On the other hand, others prefer the simplicity and consistency of a pre-lit synthetic tree, with no yearly trips to the farm or decorating efforts.
Conclusion About Real and Artificial Christmas Trees
Ultimately, choosing between a real and fake Christmas tree is a financial decision.
Go for a synthetic tree if you can handle a higher cost initially, it’ll spare you continual expenses later on.
However, if you’re still figuring out your finances, investing in a live tree could be your ideal choice until you establish a clearer financial plan.
Here is hoping this article has shed some light on your tree-dicament this festive season. Whichever option you choose, let it twinkle brightly, filling your home with light and joy.
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