Real vs artificial Christmas trees
Both choices can be reasonable. The best option depends on how long you would keep an artificial tree, and what happens to a real tree after the holidays.
| Real tree | Artificial tree | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Renewable farm-grown crop | Usually PVC plastic and metal |
| Lifespan | One season | Often 5–10+ years |
| End of life | Biodegradable; can be mulched or composted | Generally not recyclable; ends up in landfill |
| Fragrance | Natural scent (varies by species) | None |
| Upkeep | Daily watering; some needle drop | Storage space; assembly; dusting |
| Cost pattern | Buy each year | Higher one-time cost |
| Fire risk | Low if watered; high when dry | Lower, but labeled “fire resistant,” not fireproof |
Environmental impact
A real tree absorbs carbon dioxide while it grows and supports farmland that provides wildlife habitat. Its biggest footprint usually comes from transportation (including your drive to get it) and how it is disposed of: a tree that is mulched or composted has a much lower impact than one sent to a landfill.
An artificial tree’s footprint comes mostly from manufacturing and shipping. Life-cycle studies disagree on the exact break-even point, but estimates commonly range from about 5 to 20 years of reuse before an artificial tree matches a series of real trees. If you buy an artificial tree, plan to keep it for many years.
What to do with your real tree afterward
- Curbside or drop-off recycling: many cities collect trees in January and chip them into mulch. Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the stand first.
- Garden use: cut branches to cover perennial beds over winter, or chip the trunk for mulch.
- Wildlife: set the tree in your yard as shelter for birds, or (where permitted) contribute to programs that sink trees in lakes as fish habitat.
- Avoid burning the tree in a fireplace or wood stove; resin-rich evergreens can cause creosote buildup and flare-ups.
Other sustainable options
A living (potted or balled-and-burlapped) tree can be planted outdoors after the holidays if your climate allows; keep it indoors for no more than about 7–10 days. Some areas also offer tree rental services that return potted trees to the farm.