More Americans displaying fake trees over real, survey finds

Fake trees vs. real trees overview: 

• Who: Americas are increasingly opting to display fake trees at Christmas, according to a survey from the American Christmas Tree Organization (ACTA). 
• Why: Long-term cost savings, easy maintenance, consistent appearance and an easy set-up and take down were named as reasons to choose a fake tree. 
• Where: The ACTA survey consisted of American respondents. 

A growing number of Americans are opting to display fake plastic Christmas trees, according to a survey from the non-profit organization American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA). 

According to the survey, nearly 77% of Americans who said they were planning on displaying a Christmas tree this year said they would be putting up a fake tree. 

Easy setup and take down, consistent appearance, easy maintenance and the long-term cost savings of owning a fake Christmas tree were given as reasons for opting for a fake Christmas tree, according to the survey. 

“When it comes to choosing a Christmas tree this year, consumers should consider what tree best fits their needs and traditions,” ACTA Executive Director Jami Warner said in a statement. 

In total, 94% of Americans who were surveyed said they planned to display a Christmas tree this year, while only around 23% of respondents said they would be displaying a live Christmas tree, according to the survey. 

Imports of fake plastic trees on rise since mid-’90s, Census Bureau says

Among survey respondents who listed inflation as a concern, meanwhile, a total of 74% said they began purchasing their holiday decorations before September, including 30% who began making such purchases before Halloween. 

“We always recommend that consumers shop early to get ahead of the holiday rush and find the décor, type, and style of Christmas tree that best fits their needs,” Warner said.

Imports of fake plastic trees have been on the rise since the mid-’90s, according to the Census Bureau, with the number hitting its peak in 2021, according to CNN. 

The living Christmas tree industry has reportedly been trending down for the past 40-50 years, according to industry trade group the Real Christmas Tree Board, with fake trees looking more real and developing more widespread acceptance in homes. 

Marsha Gray, executive director of the group, told CNN it can take seven years on average to grow a tree — and potentially upwards of 10-15 years — meaning growers effectively have to guess what the industry will look like 10 years in advance. 

In addition to choosing their trees, consumers may also have paid attention to recent product safety recalls when buying gifts for friends and family over the holiday season. 

Where do you stand on fake trees vs. real trees? Let us know in the comments.

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