I would probably go with a real one. An argument for the artificial Photo courtesy Dadscan Inc. Russel Steven of Christmas on the Beach in Toronto has a different preference when it comes to Christmas trees. If you're cutting down a tree for your own selfish reasons, it's not right. Steven says that artificial trees are outselling real trees because they have a better look and they are more durable. Aside from being better for the environment, Steven says that most artificial trees have a 20 to 25 year warranty, they're less of a fire hazard because most are fire-proof, and tree sap is not a problem with artificial trees.
Some artificial models come complete with bark on the main stalk and branches as well as pine cones.
They are generally priced according to how many needles they have on them. It is no surprise that Steven chooses to put up artificial trees in his home at Christmas time. The real deal Ross Gough is the Manager of the Christmas Tree Farmers Association of Ontario. He sets the record straight on the environmental concerns some people have about buying real Christmas trees. There is also still a misconception that real Christmas trees deplete our natural forests and some people choose an artificial tree in the belief that they are protecting our environment.