Artificial Christmas Trees vs Real Trees

There’s something lovely about a real Christmas tree — the scent of pine, the tradition of choosing one each year, and the feeling that Christmas has truly arrived.

But real trees aren’t the only way to bring that magic home.

For many families, an artificial Christmas tree offers a different kind of Christmas: one that is simple, beautiful and ready to enjoy year after year.

The beauty of a real Christmas tree

A real tree has a charm of its own. No two trees are exactly alike, and the scent of fresh pine can instantly bring back Christmas memories.

For some, choosing a real tree each year is an important part of the Christmas tradition — and that's something an artificial tree can never quite replicate.

Real trees do, however, require a little more care. They need regular watering, can shed needles as they dry out, and their appearance can change as the season goes on.

And when Christmas is over, there is one more job: deciding what to do with the tree.

Depending on where you live, your options may include a council collection, a local recycling or drop-off service, composting or cutting the tree down yourself. In some areas, however, disposal can mean another trip in the car or an additional cost.

Why choose an artificial tree?

An artificial tree gives you the beauty and tradition of a Christmas tree without some of the practical considerations that come with a fresh tree.

Enjoy it year after year

One of the biggest advantages of an artificial tree is that it isn't just for one Christmas.

A well-made artificial tree can become part of your Christmas celebrations for many years. Instead of choosing and disposing of another tree every season, you simply bring out the one you already love.

No watering and less day-to-day maintenance

Once your artificial tree is assembled and shaped, there's very little to do beyond decorating it.

There's no water reservoir to keep filled and no need to worry about the tree drying out as Christmas goes on.

Put it up when you're ready

With an artificial tree, Christmas can start whenever you want it to.

You don't have to wait for real trees to become available, and you can put your tree up early and enjoy it for as long as you'd like.

A beautiful shape, year after year

Real trees naturally vary in shape and fullness. That's part of their character, but it can also make choosing the right one a little unpredictable.

An artificial tree gives you a more consistent shape and silhouette, making it easier to choose the height, fullness and look that works for your home.

No tree to dispose of in January

Once Christmas is over, your artificial tree simply gets packed away and stored until next year.

No cutting it down, no finding a drop-off point and no wondering how you're going to fit a 7ft tree into the car.

Just pack it away and bring it out again when Christmas comes around.

Which is right for you?

There's no single right answer.

If you love the tradition, fragrance and natural character of a fresh tree, a real Christmas tree may always be your favourite.

If you prefer convenience, consistency and the pleasure of bringing out a much-loved tree year after year, an artificial tree may be the better fit.

And for some homes, there's room for both — a beautiful artificial tree as the main family tree, with the scent and spontaneity of a real tree enjoyed elsewhere.