Misconceptions and outright lies about real Christmas trees have led to many confused consumers during the holiday season. Many believe they’re doing a favor to their wallet, family, and Mother Nature by purchasing an artificial tree to decorate year after year. We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but that’s not the case.
We’re here to dismiss the myths floating around that sabotage our favorite Christmas decoration.
Myth #1: Real Christmas trees are cut down from forests
The Truth: Approximately 98 percent of Christmas trees are grown on farms. There are nearly 15,000 Christmas tree farms with 350,000 trees growing across all 50 states. Plus, the real Christmas tree industry employees nearly 100,000 people. Christmas tree farms preserve green space and they’re typically grown on farms that can’t support other crops.
Myth #2: You save a tree by using a fake tree
The Truth: This myth is directly linked to the first myth. Christmas trees are grown specifically to be cut down and decorated with ornaments. For every real Christmas tree harvested, 1 to 3 seedlings are planted. Decorating a real Christmas tree is the greener way to celebrate the holiday season. This myth is easy to fall for because families decorate the same artificial tree for 6-10 years, however, that tree has detrimental side effects on one’s health and the environment. Eventually, the artificial tree will end up in a landfill where it will sit for decades. Many cities have recycling programs in place for real Christmas trees; recycled trees can be used for mulch, bird feeders, hiking trails, and more.
Myth #3: Christmas trees are a fire safety hazard
The Truth: A properly maintained Christmas tree does not represent a fire hazard. Real Christmas trees are the first ignited source in less than 1 out of every 1000 fires – a measly one tenth of a percent. Real Christmas trees only become a fire hazard once they are dry, a result of human neglect. Our fire safety blog breaks down all you need to know about this myth.
Myth #4: Real trees are too expensive
The Truth: As with anything, prices vary from tree to tree. Some species are known to be less expensive than other species. If you have a budget, we suggest calling the farm or lot ahead of time to ask about their price points. Prices vary based on location, species, and size.
These myths tend to give real Christmas trees an inaccurate representation in the eyes of the consumers, but we know nothing beats the fresh aroma and beauty of a Michigan-grown Christmas tree – especially a plastic, dusty, toxic artificial tree.
Christmas is around the corner and that means it’s almost time to pick out a tree. Are you visiting a choose and cut farm or a retail lot? Discover the difference, here. Most Michigan Christmas Tree Association farms open the weekend after Thanksgiving. Trees are grown to last from Thanksgiving to Christmas and we suggest buying your tree early. For Christmas tree
