Fresh-cut Fraser fir Christmas trees have been a centerpiece of holiday décor for generations, yet misinformation continues to shape how consumers and businesses view this timeless tradition. From safety myths to environmental concerns, many assumptions about real trees persist despite evolving research and modern growing practices. For retailers, small businesses, garden centers, and environmentally conscious buyers, understanding the facts behind these misconceptions is essential.
Needle shedding is often cited as a disadvantage of real trees. Some people assume real Christmas trees are messy and demand constant care, but high maintenance of the Fraser fir tree is a myth.
Once the trunk is freshly cut and placed in water, upkeep involves maintaining water levels. Trees can absorb significant amounts of water during the first week. Adequate hydration is important.
A frequent question people ask is, “Are real Christmas trees safe?” The short answer is YES! Research shows that properly maintained fresh-cut, real Christmas trees pose a very low fire risk.
A well-hydrated tree retains moisture in its needles, making it far less likely to ignite. Most incidents occur when trees are neglected or placed near heat sources such as fireplaces or heating vents.
Safety tips and care of the Christmas tree:
• Use a sturdy tree stand with adequate water capacity.
• Check water levels daily.
• Place the tree away from radiators, candles, and open flames.
• Use modern LED holiday lights that produce minimal heat.
Another misconception is that artificial trees are better for a person’s health. Artificial trees are primarily made from polyvinyl chloride, PVC. PVC contains phthalate, lead, and other toxic chemicals which contribute to health risks much greater than allergies from a real Christmas tree. Allergies can be minimized by shaking or rinsing the tree before bringing it indoors to remove any debris and pollen. For most people, real trees do not present significant allergy concerns.
The belief that artificial trees are better for the planet is false. Artificial trees are produced overseas. The production of artificial trees involves non-renewable, petroleum-based plastics which emit toxic chemicals that are harmful to people and pets. The environmental consequences of artificial trees include fossil fuel consumption, habitat destruction, and pollution. Artificial trees cannot be recycled and stay in landfills for centuries.
A widespread myth is that cutting down a real tree contributes to deforestation or harms the environment. In reality, most Christmas trees are cultivated on specialized tree farms. These trees are specifically grown for seasonal harvest and not cut from natural woodlands.
Real trees have a lower long-term carbon footprint than artificial trees. A Christmas tree may grow ten years, or more, before it is cut. During this time span, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. One acre of Christmas trees can absorb one ton of carbon dioxide each year, which mitigates climate change. That one acre also generates the daily oxygen requirements of eighteen people. Christmas tree farms prevent soil erosion, protects farmland, and provides habitat for wildlife. Shatley Farms replants multiple seedlings for every tree harvested. This continuous growth cycle functions as a renewable and circular system that supports agricultural land use and local economies. Furthermore, real trees are biodegradable and recyclable. Chipping and mulching of the Christmas tree at the end of the holiday season provides ground cover, returns nutrients to the soil, and can be used for fish habitats in lakes, rivers, and streams.
Although there are many myths and misconceptions in the real tree verses artificial tree debate, the evidence supports why a real tree is better than a fake tree. With farm land in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia, Shatley Farms is high volume, reliable wholesale supplier of top-quality Fraser Fir Christmas trees. The natural pyramid shaped appearance, strong branches, longevity, exceptional needle retention, and seasonal aroma of a Fraser fir outweighs the low maintenance requirements.
Shatley Farms is one of the largest producers of Fraser Fir Christmas trees in the United States. For retailers, small businesses, and garden centers, Shatley Farms is the reliable supplier for all Fraser fir Christmas trees and evergreen products, including wreaths and garland. We ship fresh, on schedule, and to grade. We can handle the transportation process with flexible shipping options. From cultivation, harvesting, recycling, and replanting, real Fraser fir trees, from Shatley Farms, are the most environmentally sustainable and practical choice for the holiday celebrations.
Sources
https://ncchristmastrees.com/wp-content/uploads/RealvsArtificialTrees.pdf
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