By: Aiden Snyder 

     What’s better, a real or an artificial Christmas tree? Well, public opinion would tell you that an artificial tree is better, but let’s view the facts for a better look. Having an artificial tree is easy, just take it out of the box, set it up, and decorate it, but is it authentic? While having a real tree is more work, it gives you the true feeling of having a Christmas tree. However, there are also some cons to having these trees. The Squire is here to help you decide which type of tree is the best fit for your family this holiday season. 

     The most obvious criticism for a real tree is that it can be messy. Since the tree is no longer growing, it will start to shed its needles, which can cause a bit of a mess and a fire risk. Although there are ways to care for a real Christmas tree, the main priority is keeping it watered, which can reduce dryness and needles falling. Also, be sure to measure the size of the tree so you can get a tree accurate for the space, not too big or too small. One website you can refer to that will help you with picking out a real tree is Real Christmas Tree Board. Locally, there are many Christmas tree farms to find your perfect tree, one of which is LGL Tree Farm. 

     There are also pros and cons to having an artificial tree. An artificial tree is much less work – you can just go to the store, buy the tree, take it out of the box, and set it up. Also, if you’re getting an artificial tree, there are a variety of options, whether it be a pre-lit tree, a tree that looks like it’s covered in snow, or a regular looking tree. Another plus about an artificial tree is you can use it for multiple years, and you wouldn’t be buying a new one every year. Although artificial trees can be put up earlier than real trees and last longer, they don’t have the natural scent of the real trees and sometimes the pre-lit trees can burn out quickly. 

     The Squire was able to interview, Eisenhower sophomore Riley Lauger, son of the owner of LGL Tree Farm. He shared, “Well, personally, I think that a real tree is better than a fake tree because of the experience it provides.” He also shared some tips on the perfect time to get your tree, explaining that the best time to get a tree is right after Thanksgiving. The Lauger family works hard to get their trees ready for the holidays. On the farm, they are constantly trimming trees and checking for bees’ nests. Before sending out the trees, they shake them for loose needles then wrap them for the customers. 

     The Squire recently ran a poll on our social media, and public opinion showed that 40% of our followers prefer a real tree and 60% prefer an artificial tree. Overall, there are good things about both types of trees. As you get into the holiday spirit, choose the tree that is best for you and your family.