Real or artificial Christmas tree?
Updated October 2026
There’s no single right answer, but a few points come up again and again.
What usually matters most
- What happens to a real tree afterwards. Analyses of tree footprints, such as those published by the Carbon Trust, point out that a real tree that’s chipped, composted or replanted has a much smaller footprint than one sent to landfill, where it rots and releases methane. Recycling it makes a big difference.
- How long an artificial tree is used. Artificial trees are usually made from plastic and metal, often shipped a long way. They only compare well if they’re reused for many years; you’ll often see “around ten years” quoted.
- Travel. Driving a long way to fetch a tree adds to its footprint. A farm near you, or a group trip, helps.
Practical differences
| Real tree | Artificial tree | |
|---|---|---|
| Scent and look | Natural | Consistent every year |
| Mess | Needles to sweep up | Very little |
| Cost | Every year | Upfront, then free |
| Storage | None | Needs space all year |
| Allergies | Some people react to pollen, mould or sap | Can gather dust in storage |
Buying local
Buying from a UK farm supports local growers and usually means a fresher tree. Many farms plant new trees each year to replace the ones they sell. Find one near you on our Christmas tree farm pages.