Giroud Tree and Lawn explains how to choose between a real or an artificial Christmas tree
(HUNTINGDON VALLEY, Pa.) — NEWS: The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is fully underway, and homeowners might be heading out this weekend to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. In the decades-long battle of real versus artificial Christmas trees, it can be difficult to decide between the two. The experts at Giroud Tree and Lawn share helpful tips to help homeowners weigh the pros and cons before buying a Christmas tree.
There’s a lot to consider when deciding on a real versus artificial Christmas trees. Environmentally speaking, there have been studies that show both real and artificial are better for various reasons. On the one hand, a real tree will decompose and break down much faster than an artificial tree. However, an artificial tree can be reused for many years.
When it comes to pricing, an artificial tree will cost about 1.5 times the amount of a real tree. But again, this is a one-time purchase whereas homeowners will put out that money every year with a real tree.
Many people suffer allergies related to real Christmas trees, including pine scent and mold spores. It’s important to note, however, that an artificial tree can also carry mold and dust if not stored properly throughout the year.
An artificial Christmas tree is certainly cleaner than a real tree, which will drop needles and possibly sticky sap while it’s in the home. To avoid the need for frequent vacuuming, an artificial tree might be best! However, there’s nothing quite like the seasonal smell of pine that comes from a real Christmas tree, and many people don’t mind the clean-up in exchange for that signature scent!
The best way to decide between a real versus artificial Christmas tree is to consider all of these factors when it comes to the family’s wants and needs. If homeowners decide to go with an artificial Christmas tree, they should check out this list compiled by Good Housekeeping: 14 of the Best Artificial Christmas Trees that Look Incredibly Realistic.
Types of Real Christmas Trees
Walking onto a tree lot can feel overwhelming! In Pennsylvania, there are 3 main types of Christmas trees: Pine, Spruce and Fir. But there are subtle differences within each species variety.
Pine Christmas Trees are Cost Friendly
The needles of Pine Trees can vary from the sharp needles of a Scotch Pine to the softer needles of a White Pine. Overall needle retention is excellent and the tree will look vibrant and healthy through the holiday season. Since Pines are a fast-growing variety, a larger Pine Tree will cost much less than other varieties of the same size.
Spruce Christmas Trees come in a Beautiful Spectrum of Color
The needles of Spruce Trees are much sharper than any other Christmas tree variety. Some homeowners prefer the sharper needles to deter pets and keep kids from playing with the ornaments. There may be more needle drop with a Spruce, but there’s no mistaking the beautiful coloring of this ornamental tree, especially the Blue Spruce. Within the Blue Spruce family alone there is a broad range of blue-greens that are sure to make ornaments sparkle!
Fir Trees have that distinct Christmas Tree scent
For that crisp Christmas tree smell, go with a Fir. This dark green tree has been a popular choice for generations, and its strong branches can easily hold heavier ornaments. The Balsam Fir has the strongest scent; while Douglas and White Firs are a little milder. Firs in general have soft needles, so they’re much easier to set up without cutting hands. They’re also safer for kids and pets.
Always do a quick needle test at the lot to make sure the tree is fresh and will last through the holiday season. Pick up the tree by the trunk and tap it down on the ground a few times. A little bit of droppage is ok, but if it’s raining needles move on to the next tree. Do a branch test by gently pulling from the inside of the branch out to see if a lot of needles fall off. According to the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association website, to test for tree freshness “bend a needle in half with your fingers. Fresh firs should snap, while fresh pines bend and should not break.”
About Giroud Tree and Lawn
Giroud Tree and Lawn specializes in tree service, lawn care and mosquito and tick control programs that make customers love doing business with the company since 1974. Serving Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, the company offers professional tree and lawn evaluation, tree pruning, tree removal, insect and disease control, fertilizing, stump removal, traditional and 100% organic lawn programs and mosquito and tick control. Giroud Arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and have the knowledge and experience required to properly diagnose, treat and maintain trees and lawn health. The company is Accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association and Better Business Bureau. Giroud has also been awarded the Angie’s List Super Service Award(r) every year since 2005. The “Giroud Treework for Charity” program donates free tree care services to parks, historical sites and other non-profit organizations located in the Company’s service area.
For more information, visit the company website at http://www.giroudtree.com or call 215-682-7704.
Related link: http://www.giroudtree.com
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