Why Real Christmas Trees Are the Best Gift You Can Give Your Home—and the Planet
Let’s talk about the holiday hero that doesn’t get enough credit: the real Christmas tree. Sure, it might shed a needle or two (or twenty), but a real tree brings more benefits to your home and the planet than that plastic, pre-lit alternative ever could. From natural charm to eco-friendliness, here’s why your family should opt for a real Christmas tree this year.
1. That Fresh Evergreen Scent (Hello, Christmas Spirit!)
Nothing says Christmas quite like the fresh, woodsy scent of a real balsam or fraser fir tree. Artificial trees might try to copy the look, but there’s just no way to duplicate the invigorating smell of real evergreen needles. The natural aroma fills your home and boosts holiday vibes, keeping you relaxed, cheery, and in the festive spirit!
2. Supports Local Farmers and Family-Run Garden Centres
Real Christmas trees often come from small, family-run farms and local garden centres that rely on those holiday sales for their income. When you purchase a real tree, you’re not just supporting farmers—you’re also backing family-owned garden centres that works to bring fresh, quality trees to the community. By choosing a real tree, you help sustain these businesses that add charm and character to your town. Plus, local businesses offer festive experiences, so you can make a holiday outing of picking out your tree, sipping on some hot cocoa, and creating special memories.
3. Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable
Believe it or not, real Christmas trees are an environmentally friendly choice. Most are grown on dedicated tree farms, and as they grow, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen—essentially helping to clean the air. Once the season’s over, your real tree is 100% biodegradable, unlike plastic trees, which can take centuries to decompose. Many communities offer tree recycling programs that turn old trees into mulch, so they can return to the earth naturally.
4. Provides Homes for Wildlife (Even After the Holidays)
5. Less Clutter, More Nature
With a real tree, you’re bringing a piece of nature indoors, with all the natural charm that comes with it. Sure, it might not be as perfect as a plastic tree, but each branch has its quirks, making every tree unique. And the best part? You don’t have to find storage space in your basement or attic for a bulky artificial tree once the holidays are over.
6. Low Carbon Footprint
7. Creates Lasting Traditions
There’s something magical about heading to a Christmas tree farm with family or friends, hunting down the perfect tree, and bringing it home. It’s a tradition that lasts generations and builds memories that far outshine lugging a fake tree out of storage. Even better, you get to involve kids in the process and teach them the value of supporting nature and local farms.
8. Healthier for Indoor Air Quality
Artificial trees are often made of PVC, which can release potentially harmful chemicals like dioxins over time. Real trees, on the other hand, simply bring a little extra oxygen and a bit of nature indoors without added pollutants. Studies have even shown that having real plants and trees inside can boost mood and reduce stress levels, making for a happier holiday.
9. Easy Disposal (and Some Fun DIY Projects!)
When the holidays wind down, disposing of a real tree is both easy and eco-friendly. The Town of Georgina (and many other municipalities) offer curbside tree pickup for recycling, or you can take it to a recycling centre. If you’re the crafty type, you can even repurpose parts of your tree into DIY projects, like coasters, ornaments, or natural bird feeders. Real trees offer endless possibilities beyond just being a holiday decoration.
How to Care for Your Real Tree:
- Choose Fresh: Pick a tree with vibrant green needles that don’t fall off at a touch.
- Make a fresh cut: Cut minimum 1" off the bottom of the tree and get it in water within 20 minutes of doing so.
- Water, Water, Water: Keep the tree’s water reservoir full, especially in the first few days when it’ll drink the most. Adding tree preserve makes a difference!
- Avoid Heat: Place it away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces, as they can dry the tree out quickly.
- Trim It Down: After the season, cut off the branches and lay them over garden beds to act as a cozy winter mulch.
So, there you have it, real Christmas trees are not only a beautiful, natural addition to your holiday decor, but they’re also an eco-friendly choice that supports local farms, benefits wildlife, and brings tradition and memories into your home. This year, consider swapping the artificial for a real tree—it’s the gift that keeps on giving long after the season ends.
Happy gardening!🎄