Artificial or Real Christmas Tree? A Designer Explains How to Make the Right Choice 0 5

The Christmas tree truly sets the mood for winter holidays. It is the center of the home, bringing people together, filling the space with warmth, and creating that festive magic. The choice between a real and an artificial tree depends on lifestyle, space size, and personal preferences — each option has its own charm and advantages. When comparing real and artificial trees, the designer notes several important points.

Real Trees: The Charm of Tradition and the Classic Holiday Scent

Real trees are loved for their authentic scent, natural beauty, and the tradition of choosing a tree each year. After the holiday season, they can be recycled or composted — this is an eco-friendly option, especially if the tree is grown locally and responsibly. At the same time, a real tree requires more care: regular watering and careful disposal after the holidays, which can be inconvenient for busy families.

Artificial Trees: A Practical Alternative

An artificial tree is suitable for those who value convenience, longevity, and a conscious approach. "It doesn’t shed needles, doesn’t require cleaning up, and lasts for years — just take it out of the box each season.

When choosing an artificial tree, pay attention to the following:

Size and Space.

Be sure to assess how much space is available for the tree in your home. Today’s selection includes trees of various sizes — from compact decorative models 6 cm tall to two-meter tall ones. Larger models can be disassembled and stored conveniently.

Materials and Stability.

The needles of artificial trees are made from plastic containing 50% to 70% recycled materials; the trunk and joints are made of steel with a protective coating; connectors and supports are partially made from recycled materials. This combination ensures the strength and durability of the tree, while also meeting sustainability requirements better than many artificial alternatives.

Decorative Elements.

Artificial trees are often sold in decorative pots, and they can also be complemented with special underlays or, for example, a faux fur rug to enhance the Christmas atmosphere.

By choosing a quality artificial tree and using it for 10–20 seasons, you can significantly reduce your ecological footprint, while the tree remains stylish and hassle-free.

An Essential Element — Tree Stand

Once you’ve settled on the perfect tree, it’s important to consider its base and surroundings. A reliable stand is a safety issue, especially in homes with small children and pets. For real trees, it’s better to choose a stand with a water reservoir — this keeps the tree fresh longer. Artificial trees need a stable, well-balanced base to prevent tipping over.

The designer notes that in recent years, tree skirts have become a favorite decor element — they complete the festive look, hide the stand, and protect the floor. The skirt truly brings the whole look together. It’s both functional and beautiful. Many choose skirts in traditional winter holiday colors. They can be used year after year — it’s stylish and sustainable.

Create Your Own Celebration

The choice between a real and an artificial tree is a matter of personal priorities. For some, the tradition of a natural tree is important, for others, the convenience of a permanent tree, and for some, the deciding factors become the size of the space and lifestyle. Whatever tree you choose, the main thing is to make it “yours.” Select decorations that reflect your character, delight your family, and create the atmosphere of winter holidays that you want to return to.