Artificial Christmas trees have come a long way since the first bristle brush trees were introduced in the 1930s. Today, they are more realistic, durable, and customizable than ever, capturing the interest of a growing number of holiday decorators. With features such as pre-lit branches, lifelike textures, and convenient storage options, artificial trees offer an appealing alternative to real Christmas trees.
Here are six reasons to switch from a real Christmas tree to an artificial one this year.
1. Convenience
Both types of trees offer advantages and disadvantages when it comes to convenience. Here is a closer look at key points to help you weigh your options.
- Longer Lifespan - If you buy a fresh tree a week or two before Christmas, it may still look beautiful on the day itself, but it can dry out and lose its appeal by New Year’s Eve. Artificial Christmas trees are ideal for those who enjoy decorating early and keeping their tree on display throughout the entire holiday season.
- Easy Assembly - Many families treasure the tradition of choosing a live Christmas tree. However, cutting, transporting, mounting, watering, and cleaning up afterwards all require time and effort. Artificial trees are designed in manageable sections for quicker setup. For even greater convenience, our Flip Trees® allow you to simply roll the base into place, flip it upright, and attach the top section.
- Simple Lighting - Stringing lights on a real tree can be time-consuming, and there is always the risk of dislodging needles or damaging bulbs. Our pre-lit Christmas trees feature professionally hand-strung lights for even coverage. With the Easy Plug® System, light connections are built directly into the trunk, so the tree illuminates with just a single plug.
- Low Maintenance - Real trees require regular watering and frequent cleanup of fallen needles and sap. Artificial Christmas trees need little attention once assembled. There is no watering, no shedding, and no sticky residue to manage, making holiday decorating simpler and more enjoyable.
2. Safety
Setting up a Christmas tree in a busy household with pets, children, and guests moving around your décor can raise valid safety concerns. Here are a few important points to consider:
- Flame Retardant - Dried needles can easily catch fire from faulty electrical lights or open flames. Balsam Hill Christmas trees are made from flame-retardant materials, reducing fire risk when proper care and precaution are taken. Always follow safe decorating practices and keep trees away from heat sources.
- Non-allergenic - A real Christmas tree may trigger asthma, sneezing, or a runny nose, especially the longer it remains indoors. Artificial Christmas trees are made from synthetic materials that do not produce the same allergens. To keep your tree clean and free of mould and dust, store it in a Christmas tree storage bag and place it in a cool, dry area when not in use.
3. Appearance
Real evergreens may offer the classic look, texture, and scent of a traditional Christmas tree, but here are several reasons to consider choosing an artificial one this season.
- Realism - While many people love the appearance of real Christmas trees, today’s artificial options are remarkably lifelike. Our exclusive True Needle® technology uses high-grade polyethene, or PE, to replicate the colour, shape, and texture of freshly cut branches for a natural, realistic finish.
- Variety - Tree lots often carry a limited selection, and popular species can sell out quickly as Christmas approaches. With artificial Christmas trees, you can choose from a wide range of styles, shapes, and foliage types, including varieties that may not grow naturally in your area.
- Easier to Decorate - Our premium artificial Christmas trees are designed with sturdy yet flexible needles that are gentle on your hands. Unlike real needles, they will not prick your skin or fall off while you are decorating. Strong branches provide reliable support for ornaments of various sizes. We also offer sparse trees, giving you more space to highlight treasured decorations and create a beautifully balanced display.
4. Cost Effectiveness
Artificial Christmas trees may cost more upfront than real trees, but they are designed to be reused year after year instead of being discarded after Christmas or New Year’s. As the price of real trees continues to rise each season, investing in a Balsam Hill artificial Christmas tree can help you save money over time while enjoying consistent quality and beauty year after year.
5. Environmental Impact
Many families use their artificial Christmas tree for an average of 10 years, which can have a more favourable impact on the environment than purchasing and disposing of a real tree every year. Explore our reNEW™ Collection for lifelike trees crafted from 30% recycled plastic.
6. Extra Benefits
Every Balsam Hill Christmas tree includes a high-quality tree stand, a storage bag, a pair of gloves for fluffing, and extra bulbs and fuses for pre-lit models. We also offer a three-year limited warranty on regular-priced and sale artificial Christmas trees, as well as a 60-day limited warranty on clearance items. Learn more about our warranty policy here.
Why Choose an Artificial Christmas Tree?
Benefits
- Reusable Cost-Effective Over Time - Expertly crafted for lasting durability, our artificial Christmas trees are designed to be enjoyed season after season. Over time, this makes them a cost-effective choice for many households.
- Low Maintenance - There are no shedding needles, no daily watering, and no sticky sap to clean up. You can enjoy timeless holiday elegance without the mess.
- Customizable - Available in a wide range of lifelike styles, including flocked, pre-lit, and slim silhouettes, our trees come in various heights and lighting options to suit your home and personal style.
- Gentle on Seasonal Sensitivities - Artificial Christmas trees are ideal for those with allergies or sensitivities to natural pine scents, helping everyone feel more comfortable throughout the holiday season.
- Built-In Safety Features - Crafted from flame-retardant materials, our trees are designed with safety in mind, offering added peace of mind during this special time of year.
- Easy Setup and Storage - With innovative features such as hinged branches and pre-lit designs, setup is simple and efficient. When the season ends, proper storage helps maintain your tree’s shape and quality for years to come.
Considerations
- Lacks Natural Fragrance - Artificial trees do not provide the fresh evergreen scent of a real Christmas tree. However, scented ornaments or diffusers can help recreate that classic holiday aroma.
- Requires Long-Term Storage Space - To preserve its appearance and durability, your tree will need adequate storage space between seasons.
- Non-Biodegradable - Unlike natural trees, artificial models are not biodegradable and should be disposed of responsibly after many years of use.
- Environmental Impact - Made from materials such as metal and PVC, artificial trees have a higher initial carbon footprint compared to freshly cut trees. However, extended use over many years can help balance this impact.
- Long-Term Investment - The upfront cost may be higher than purchasing a real tree, but the value becomes clear over time through repeated use and consistent beauty year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we answer common questions to help you better understand the key differences between real and artificial Christmas trees.
Which Type of Tree Is More Eco-Friendly?
Artificial Christmas trees are often considered more eco-friendly when used for many years, reducing the need to harvest live trees annually. Environmental impact also depends on factors such as production materials, transportation, and responsible disposal at the end of the tree’s lifespan.
Are Real Christmas Trees Safe for Pets?
Real Christmas trees are generally safe for pets, but precautions are important. Some pets may chew on branches, which can cause mild digestive discomfort. Swallowing sharp pine needles may also pose a risk, so it is best to supervise pets around the tree and keep fallen needles cleaned up.
Do Artificial Christmas Trees Have a Scent?
Artificial Christmas trees are typically unscented. However, scented ornaments, sprays, or diffusers are available to help recreate the classic fragrance of a fresh evergreen.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Artificial Christmas Trees?
Artificial Christmas trees are reusable, easy to maintain, and available in a wide variety of beautifully crafted styles. They require minimal upkeep and can be enjoyed for many seasons. On the other hand, they involve a higher upfront investment, do not offer a natural evergreen scent, and are made from synthetic materials.
Is an Artificial Christmas Tree More Eco-Friendly?
An artificial tree can be a more sustainable option when used for many years. If enjoyed for seven or more holiday seasons, it may help offset its initial carbon footprint compared to purchasing a fresh cut tree each year.
Do Artificial Trees Look Real?
Many premium artificial Christmas trees are designed to closely replicate the look of natural evergreens. Balsam Hill’s True Needle® technology features expertly crafted branch tips that capture the colour, texture, and dimensional beauty of real tree cuttings for a remarkably realistic appearance.
We hope this article has helped you decide whether an artificial or real Christmas tree is right for your home this holiday season. Click the button below to browse our collection of artificial Christmas trees.