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The Periect Tree Christmas is quickly approaching and each year have a higher price tag, ranging from under $100 to $600 about this time comes the contentious issue of what or more, depending on size and the accessories. How- kind of tree to purchase for the coming Christmas ever, they are also more cost-effective because they can season...fresh or fake? There are a number of places to purchase either type in Scugog Township, but if you’re buying ‘fresh’, consider supporting the Ist Port Perry Scouts, who will be selling trees at the local Canadian Tire store on Simcoe St., south of town (see story next page). As long as Christmas trees have been a part of the holiday season, there has been a debate over fresh-cut or manu- factured artificial trees. Each side has its supporters and detractors, and both have their pros and cons. Natural tree supporters feel a real spruce or pine tree is much more aesthetically appealing. However, those buying late in the season might be stuck with all that’s left, long after the more desirable trees have _ be used for several years after their initial purchases. There is also no need to purchase accessories such as tree stands and watering devices with an artifi- cial tree. Moving A Christmas Tree Natural trees always pose the challenge of getting it home safely. Whether tied to the roof, or in a trunk of a car, the job can be quite messy. There is also the issue of getting the tree through the doorway and the trail of pine or spruce needles from the car to the house, and finally getting a stand that will hold the tree straight, without fear of falling over. Clearly, artificial trees are more advantageous when it comes to mov- ing them. They usually come boxed and therefore are easy to get into the house. Artificial trees are also already been sold. While some like the real look easy to.set up, most often today, of a natural tree, others like their with/stands and lights:installed. Christmas tree to be perfect, Before You Buy with none of the flaws (crooked If you were to purchase trunk, open spaces) of a natu- one tree a year for ten years, ral ee. — as opposed to only one artifi- 0, when deciding on cial tree in the same period, ‘real’ or ‘fake’, consider the following factors. the cost for a fresh tree is most certain to be more. But, do the benefits of Cost Of A Tree Ne Natural trees can the real trees still out- vary in price depend- weigh the negatives of the fake ones? Clearly there is a savings by purchas- ing an artificial tree which will last for years, but it’s important to look at the environ- mental differ- ing on where you go. Prices can range from less than $20 to more than $50. When making the decision, it’s important to keep in mind that a tree does not last very long, and therefore ence between investing too much the two options and money might not be the best what is best for your lifestyle. In the end the choice is way to spend your money. Artificial trees will initially yours! 16 FOCUS - DECEMBER 2014