Christmas trees: the age-old tradition of putting a fir tree in your living room and decorating it with shiny things. It’s a little weird when you think about it, but it has become a beloved Christmas activity in the Western world. The tradition comes from Germany and some sources date it back as far as the 16th century! The modern Christmas tree is often credited to Prince Albert. But it was actually Queen Charlotte, the German wife of George III who set up the first Christmas tree in England in 1800, spreading the tradition across the globe. The first artificial trees can be dated back to Germany in the 1880s but only became popular when the U.S started producing them on a large scale in the 1930s.
So, both have been around for a long time, and both are pretty easy to get in today’s day and age. But which is better?
Real Trees
It’s hard to beat the original and for me real trees are the real deal. To me, the best thing about them is the smell. They fill your room with a natural pine smell that just screams Christmas and can’t be replicated. Sure, you could burn a pine scented candle but it’s just not the same!
You also get a completely unique tree that is often bushier than its artificial counterpart.
As well as the aesthetic benefits, studies show that real trees are actually much better for the environment as even though they are cut down, they are replanted.
So, they’re more environmentally friendly, and bring top Christmas vibes, what’s the catch?
Well, they’re a bit of a hassle. You have to buy a new one every year, so they are more expensive, and they take much longer to set up. They also excessively shed pines; you could be finding pine needles in your living room in February!
That sounds like a lot of work, if only there was an easier alternative…
Artificial Trees
Oh, there is!
Aside from (in theory) only having to buy one in your whole life and the easy set-up, artificial trees have a lot of benefits that real trees don’t.
For example, you can buy fake trees with built in lights, different coloured pines, and artificial snow applied. You name it, you can probably buy it.
It’s also a lot easier to buy one that fits your living space perfectly as most artificial trees have their exact measurements stated on the box.
However, they are made of plastic and although I’m sure they will be loved for years, at some point they will end up in a land fill. Not great for the environment.
Which is Better?
For me, real trees take the cake because of their natural smell. But admittedly I never put one up in my flat, it’s just too much hassle! It’s completely up to you. If you’re a student and live in a flat then artificial trees might be your best bet. Or maybe you should push the boat out this year, go real and go green.
Feature Image Credit: Pexels
