Christmas trees are one of the most popular holiday decorations. But did you know that the tradition of bringing home a living tree has been around for about 200 years?
In the 19th century, Christmas trees were first decorated with candles and ornaments. By the early 20th century, electric lights were used to illuminate them.
Today, there are many different types of artificial Christmas trees available on the market. However, many people prefer real ones instead because they look more natural and boast better health benefits.
The average American family buys a new tree every year. This can have an impact on the environment. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, about 30 million real trees are sold in the U.S. each year during November and December alone.
Are Christmas trees a threat to the environment? Are they sustainable?
It is estimated that Christmas trees in the United States are produced on more than 23,000 acres of land and sold at more than 2,500 retail locations across the country. This accounts for nearly 15 percent of sales during the holiday season.
But what if one day we decide to go green and cut back on our use of trees? Is there an option that is just as festive without being harmful to the environment?
Fortunately, there are several options available to those who want to celebrate Christmas in a more sustainable way. Here is a list of five most sustainable Christmas trees:
Douglas Fir
The Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is native to western North America and can grow as tall as 100 feet in maturity. The tree has soft needles and dark green branches with cones that contain seeds. It’s a long-lasting choice for your holiday decoration, as it can last up to 20 years if properly cared for.
Fraser Fir
The Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) has soft needles and grows between 40 and 80 feet tall at maturity. It has stiff branches that keep their shape well when adorned with lights or ornaments. The Fraser fir is common throughout much of Canada and parts of the United States.
The Colorado Blue Spruce
This species grows very fast and is resistant to pests and disease, making it an excellent choice for those who want a long-lasting tree that won’t need much care over its lifetime. It also has dark green needles that make it look especially festive during the holidays without being too bright or garish.
The Leyland Cypress
This evergreen is native to parts of Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia — so if you’re looking for a truly international option for your Christmas tree, this might be for you! It also has dark green needles that look good year-round when used as decoration indoors or out — not just during the holiday season.
Virginia Pine
The Virginia pine is a long-lasting, hardy tree that grows well in many different climates and soil types. It’s also known for its beautiful scent and soft needles, which make it ideal for families with small children or pets.