As the holiday season arrives, many face the classic dilemma of whether to choose a real or fake Christmas tree. While both options have their merits, real trees come with some notable environmental benefits.
Valerie Nalls, from Nall’s Produce, which operates a Christmas tree market in Washington, D.C., highlights the positive impact of real trees. “Real trees take eight years to grow, producing oxygen and providing a habitat for wildlife,” Nalls explains. Additionally, farmers often plant new trees to replace harvested ones, promoting sustainability.
Even after the holidays, real trees continue to benefit the environment. Nalls advises checking with local municipalities, as many offer composting or mulching services for discarded trees, ensuring they return to the earth in an eco-friendly way.
When selecting your tree, Nalls suggests looking for soft, flexible branches. Gently bend a small branch—if it doesn’t lose needles, you’ve found a healthy tree. Once home, be sure to water your tree daily, and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heaters. If water levels fall below the cut line, pouring hot water at the base can help dissolve sap and enable better water absorption.
Nalls Produce’s Christmas Tree Market is open Fridays through Sundays at Union Market, or you can visit their permanent location in Alexandria, Virginia.
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