The Benefits of “Real”
Some of my family members have artificial trees, due to pine allergies. A few readers have also mentioned foregoing a real tree and going with plastic because it prevents them from chopping down a tree. When you think about it, that is a little foolish considering a plastic tree can end up in a landfill. Real Christmas trees may be cut, but they provide many benefits for the homestead.
A real Christmas tree, especially a Frasier fir, fills the home with fragrance. It eliminates the need for candles in the house. Of course, one might still choose to buy candles for the look of them, but the soot level will be reduced by not lighting as many. Of course, soy candles do not generate soot, but traditional wax candles are more accessible.
The objection to a real tree sometimes comes from folks who have a large collection of ornaments. They believe that they will weigh down the boughs of a tree, and that an artificial one supports them better. A noble fir Christmas tree has dense needs, and a nice layered look that is perfect for many, many ornaments. Also, the needles sometimes have a two toned appearance. You can see shades of dark and medium green throughout the tree. The upturned needles compliment ornaments very wekk
When the tree fades and it it is time to throw it away, the tree can be wrapped in popcorn and seed garland to feed the wildlife that has stayed behind in the north and has not traveled south. The last few branches can provide just a last dash of fragrance as well. Needles can be placed in a decorative dish in the house. When all the needles are gone, the tree can be turned into mulch. If you are not that handy or don’t have the need, you can be confident when a tree is carried away that it will decompose and provide nutrients to the next generation of plants and trees.
Do you feel better about choosing a real tree this year? If you are too busy to look, you can even order them through mail order. Greenvalleychristmastrees.com has a selection of handpicked trees that can arrive right at your door. If you are unable to get out this Christmas due to an illness or not having a large enough vehicle, this may be a thought.
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