An Artificial Christmas Tree Can Make the Holidays Even Brighter -- Real Christmas Trees Cost Three Times More Than Artificial Trees
(PRWEB) November 3, 2009... While it looks like the long, crippling recession may be nearing an end, it has forced consumers to rethink the way they spend their hard earned money. As the holiday season is upon us, when considering the purchase of a Christmas tree, the facts are clear‹artificial Christmas trees save real money over the annual purchase of farm-grown Christmas trees, according to the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA).
Based on a 10-year analysis, the purchase of a single, pre-lit artificial Christmas tree costs 70 percent less than the purchase of 10 farm-grown Christmas trees over the same period. That means that a real Christmas tree costs more than three times as much as an artificial tree. Because so many consumers keep their artificial trees for 20 years or more, the savings can be even greater.
"Let's face it, the pressure to spend money during the holiday season is intense, no matter what the state of the economy. A great way to minimize stress during the holidays and to save money in the long run is to purchase an artificial tree," said Jami Warner, Executive Director of the ACTA.
"Artificial Christmas trees come in many options and price ranges, but they all have something in common‹they can be enjoyed over and over again, saving families¹ money each year. Financial experts are recommending that cost-conscious families consider buying goods that can be reused, and artificial Christmas trees fit the bill, especially at a time when every penny counts. Artificial trees may cost a bit extra initially, but the savings made up over time can be substantial," Warner said.
Farm-grown Christmas trees continue to escalate in price. In some cases, real Christmas trees can easily cost upwards of $100.00, and that¹s money hard-working families are throwing away each year after the tree dries up and is left on out the curb. Artificial trees are often more uniform and attractive in appearance than real trees, allowing homeowners to decorate with style and ease, especially the pre-lit varieties.
"With an artificial tree, there is no need to strap a large real tree across the top of the family car, water the tree each day, which is a thankless task and which can cause damage to the floors and carpet, and worry about it drying out before the holiday season ends," said Warner.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, if your household includes a real tree in its festivities keep the tree well watered. Typically shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Dry and neglected trees are a fire waiting to happen.
For more on the cost analysis, or to view or download the summary chart of this analysis, visit the ACTA website www.christmastreeassociation.org.
About ACTA: The American Christmas Tree Association is a non-profit organization formed to provide the public with the most current and factual data to help consumers make well-educated decisions about Christmas trees. For more information, please visit www.christmastreeassociation.org.