When it comes to Christmas trees, there are many different schools of thought on which is better, real or artificial? There are many advantages to both and both are certainly beautiful. But which one is right for you? Below are some key points to keep in mind while deciding on a real or artificial Christmas tree.

One of the benefits that artificial trees have over real trees is that they are very low maintenance and you won't have to spend a lot of time cleaning up after it. Artificial trees don't require watering and they also won't drop needles. They may drop a few needles that have become loose over the years of use but the number of needles dropped will be far less than that of a real tree. Dropped pine needles aren't only an inconvenience; they can also be dangerous to pets that try to eat them.

Another hassle with a real tree is that they are much harder to find and bring home than an artificial tree is. A real tree requires going out to find the tree, whether it be from a local seller or actually going out to cut your own. The tree must then be attached to the vehicle somehow to get it home and that can require different cords and attachments. It can be a real pain just to get it on the car. With an artificial tree, it's much easier to pick out the nicest from the store, pack it into the car in its box and bring it home.

Once the tree is home however, the artificial tree will need to be assembled and set up. This is not true with real trees, which already come complete. Some artificial trees are very easy to set up with branches just being inserted to a pool that has the outline of a tree. Others though can be quite difficult and have certain places that certain branches have to go or they will not fit. This can sometimes be very frustrating.

Storage is also an issue with artificial trees. They will need to be packed back in their boxes and stored in a closet or garage, taking up valuable space. It can also be quite bothersome to find that tree that was put away the year before after an entire year's worth of storage has been placed in with the tree, perhaps burying it. Real trees however can simply be thrown out once the holiday is over.

Cost is always a factor when deciding on any purchase. Artificial trees are definitely more inexpensive, even if there is a larger initial payment required. Even with the high cost of the artificial tree, this cost is a one-time fee and does not need to be paid every year. With a real tree, a tree must be bought every year and over the years, this can become quite costly.

One benefit that a real tree has over an artificial tree is the beautiful natural smell that they produce. This is the sole reason why many people opt for real trees. And it is a reason that cannot be argued. Real trees smell beautiful and there's no comparison. It's possible to buy a pine fragrance that is made especially to be sprayed on artificial trees but it is not the same as the scent a real tree produces.

By Sam Bellows