Real vs. artificial is always a hot debate regardless of the topic. Over the next month or so, the argument will be applied to Christmas trees. As an outdoorsman with scores of houseplants, obviously, I prefer real trees, but artificials have their place. Another option is a living Christmas tree that’s either potted or balled-and-burlapped. All of them look beautiful and shelter presents, your choice depends on your preferences. .
 
Gardeners often choose the greenest options and therefore are drawn towards real trees. But both have some claim to “green”, though neither is totally environmentally friendly. Real trees are obviously alive and typically local. As they grow, they filter water and air, sequester carbon, prevent erosion, and produce oxygen. When the tree is cut for sale, it is immediately replaced with between 1-3 seedlings according to the National Christmas Tree Association. This keeps the plantation in a constant state of green and growing. However, it is at the expense of native vegetation and biological diversity. Christmas tree plantations are often extensive monocultures that must use pesticides, which can drift or leach into other areas.   

Artificial tree makers claim their products are green because they are reusable for decades. Conserving and reusing materials is definitely environmentally sound, but closer look exposes some ugly truths. Artificial plastic trees are made from oil. The process of making the PVC (polyvinyl chloride) needles emits volatile gases and pollutants. Most artificials are made in China and shipped to America requiring vast amounts of fuel. As we found out with toys earlier this year, not all Chinese manufacturers meet our standards for quality control. Lead dust has been found on artificial Christmas trees. If you suspect your tree contains lead, Richard Maas of the University of North Carolina in Asheville suggests keeping your kids away from the tree. Good luck with that. To find out if your tree has lead, read the label, call the manufacturer, or contact the National Lead Information Center (http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/nlic.htm).

In defense of artificials, many of them won’t have toxic chemicals. In addition, for convenience and value artificial Christmas trees can’t be beat. As a kid, I remember going to the attic (an adventure in itself) every December and taking out the boxes with the tree and ornaments. My sister and I loved to fit the sturdy branches into the stem. It required no watering, no pruning, no straightening, or any maintenance at all, just loads of decorations and presents. For people with allergies an artificial tree may be the only option. Apartment and condo dwellers often choose an artificial tree because it is easier and less messy to transport in an elevator or up a stairwell.  

Parents, who want the convenience of an artificial tree, might choose aluminum. Although more expensive than a PVC tree, aluminum is less toxic and 100% recyclable. Personally, I like my Christmas trees green, but aluminums and many plastics come in an array of colors that allow the artsy and eclectic to personalize their Christmas.
Real trees also come in a bewildering selection. At the lot make sure the tree is still green and moist. Smell it for fragrance. Run a gloved hand along the branch to see it any needles easily detach. Finally, grab the tree by the trunk, lift it up a bit, and thump it down while holding on to it. If a lot of needles fall off, then the tree has probably been cut for a while and is drying out. If the tree passes your freshness test and the lot manager has not kicked you out, then you have found your Christmas tree.

For those with lots of landscape space, consider a living tree. They are the greenest option of all and give you a reason to garden in the winter. This is not a choice for extremely cold climates, but it is perfect for the Southeast and West Coast, where December and January are excellent times to plant trees. Almost any evergreen will do. Junipers, cypresses, true cedars, pines, spruces, and cryptomeria are common options.

Make sure you have enough space for the full-grown tree in your landscape before buying. Most commercial Christmas trees grow into big specimens. Place large conifers at least 30’ from the house. For energy-saving effects plant on north, west, or northwest side to screen against cold winter winds. Weight can be an issue. 5-6’ b&b trees can weigh 200 pounds or more. Container trees are usually lighter. A wheelbarrow, handtruck, dolly, or muscular husband is a must.

To use living trees for indoor winter decoration and keep them alive can be tricky, but the rewards and memories last a lifetime. For ball-and-burlapped or potted trees follow the guidelines below:
    •    Select the location and dig the hole before the ground freezes. In general 18” deep and 36” wide is a standard hole. Put soil on a tarp or blanket and cover. Use to backfill hole when planting tree later. 

    •    Buy a healthy looking tree with an intact root ball

    •    Transport carefully and handle root ball gently. Cover while transporting to protect against salt spray and desiccating winds..

    •    Once home, spray needles with anti-transpirant, like Wilt-Pruf or Vapor-guard

    •     Thoroughly soak root ball and keep it moist.

    •    Store in a shady spot outdoors or in an unheated garage. Mulch or cover with a blanket to prevent rootball from freezing.

    •    Bring in house near Christmas time and situate far from radiators, heat vents, or stoves. For best success, the tree needs to be inside for a minimal time. Most growers recommend only 7 – 10 days. If your home is more than 70 degrees, reduce the time to 5 days. To fill the void, pre-decorate the Christmas tree area with garlands, bows, lights, and presents. The tree will be the finishing touch.

    •    Place in large tray, pan, or (for the rustic and woodsy) wheelbarrow. Decorate the tree. Use cool (LED) lights to avoid damaging needles.

    •    Monitor root ball for adequate moisture. Keep it moist.

    •    Right after Christmas remove decorations and take tree outside

    •    Planting is a family activity. If potted, remove from pot. Do not plant too deep. The top of the root ball should be at the surface. Use a measuring tape to accurately measure depth and if the hole is too deep, add soil before planting. Place tree in prepared hole. If balled-and-burlapped, pull back and cut away burlap being careful of nails or staples. (You can also just stuff the burlap under the rootball.)

    •    Backfill just enough to steady the plant.

    •    Ask family members to step away from tree on different sides (north and west or south and east), so they can get a perspective on straightness.

    •    Once everyone agrees the tree

    •    Once everyone agrees the tree is straight, backfill to about halfway up the rootball.

    •    Water. After soil settles, check for straightness again.

    •    Add backfill up to original planting depth (the top of the rootball).

    •    Water thoroughly. Mulch.

    •    Dedicate/commemorate your new tree. Celebrate and get warm with some hot chocolate (mixed with Frangelico for the adults).