Christmas Tree Myths

MYTH #1: Real Christmas Trees are cut down from forests.

FACT: Wholesale tree farmers plan where they are going to plant trees, like any other crop. One to three seedlings are planted for every tree that is actually cut. Your tree was planted and harvested just so your family could take it home and enjoy it!

MYTH #2: You save a tree by using a fake tree.

FACT: Christmas trees are planted on tree farms and replaced with seedlings. Close to half a billion trees are currently growing on tree farms in the U.S. Your tree is a renewable resource that can be completely recycled after the holiday season. And, artificial trees come in sturdy cardboard boxes…made from trees.

MYTH #3: Real Christmas Trees aggravate allergies.

FACT: Sources like the National Institute of Environmental Health Science (NIEHS) and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) say that while it’s possible that a person may be allergic to Christmas tree pollen or even tree sap, it’s not as widespread as many believe.

According to the NIEHS of the 50,000 different kinds of trees, less than 100 have been shown to cause allergies. Most allergies are specific to one type of tree, and Christmas trees are unlikely to produce pollen during December.

An artificial tree stored in the attic or basement can collect dust, molds, etc.. So whether you use a fresh Christmas tree from a farm, or an artificial tree stored in a box, if you have sensitive allergies to dust and molds, AAAAI recommends you spray the tree down in the yard with a hose before putting up. Let it dry completely before bringing indoors.

We want you to feel good and enjoy your beautiful, real Christmas tree!

MYTH #4: It’s better to use a fake tree because you can re-use it each year.

FACT: According to research, most fake trees are only used between 6 and 9 years before they’re disposed of and eventually end up in a landfill. Unlike real trees, which are completely biodegradable and recyclable, fake trees are usually made from petroleum products, end up in landfills, and do not easily decompose.

MYTH #5: Christmas Trees are a fire safety hazard and frequently catch on fire.

FACT: The reality is, a tree being accidentally ignited is EXTREMELY rare…as in 0.0004%. Some news stories showing a tree ablaze have been staged using gasoline or other flammable substances. According to a report from the National Fire Protection Association, 28% of rare home fires involving a Christmas tree reported use of an artificial tree.

MYTH #6: Real Christmas Trees end up in landfills.

FACT: Christmas tree recycling programs are available nationwide, some offer curb side pickup, and many are quite creative. A farm-grown Christmas tree is 100% biodegradable, so it can be used for all kinds of things in nature, from mulch to erosion control. The acidic nature of pine mulch is much loved by our blueberry plants! Have you ever seen used Christmas trees sunk into a public lake for fish habitats? Some people like to leave their tree outdoors during the winter months as shelter for birds, bunnies, and other creatures.

MYTH #7: No one cares if my Christmas Tree is real or fake.

FACT: The time invested in buying and maintaining a farm-grown Christmas tree is minimal to the joy your family will get out of it! Memories of picking out the tree together. The anticipation of setting the tree up and having your home smell like Christmas. Choosing hand-me-down ornaments or crafting new ones. Knowing that you made a good environmental choice. Recycling your tree after the season and watching birds flitter through the branches, or be mulched for a spring garden.

The care you put into selecting your family’s Christmas tree will set the tone for a holiday season filled with peace, love, and gratitude.

Content Courtesy: North Carolina Christmas Tree Association