It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and for those you who celebrate Christmas, your celebratory tree is likely already up and good to go, decked out in nostalgic ornaments and twinkling lights. These holiday staples vary not only in their shapes and sizes, but also in their genuineness, from fresh pine to shiny plastic. And across America, the debate is split pretty evenly. Both kinds of Christmas trees have their share of pros and cons, according to the Hints and Things website.

 Real Christmas Trees
Pros:
– fresh pine scent
– the traditional choice
– variety to choose from
– absorbs carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases, releases oxygen into the air
– Christmas tree farms provide jobs, helps sustain the American rural economy
– another tree is planted for each one harvested to ensure a steady supply year after year
– biodegradable
Cons:
– need constant maintenance
– fire hazard
– sheds needles, can make a mess
– have to get a new one every year, and can be difficult to transport/set up/dispose of
– more expensive

Fake Christmas Trees
Pros:
– more cost-effective
– not a fire hazard
– no maintenance required and no mess
– reliable selection, all are “perfect”
Cons:
– can look synthetic
– made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource
– not biodegradable
– most are made abroad, not beneficial to American economy
– some assembly required
– household storage space required

Haley Frank, a freshman, is the proud owner of a real Christmas tree. Not only does she love the smell, she said that “the experience just makes the holidays that much better.”
Fellow freshman Jess Ward said her family has been using artificial trees for many years, because there is less maintenance. But Jess, who used to have real trees in the past, added that “going out and picking the perfect one is always so much fun. Even though they’re harder to take care of, it completes the atmosphere.”

There are advantages and disadvantages to both kinds of Christmas trees. But no matter what kind your family uses, one thing is for sure: any type will make your holiday season merry and bright.