Real Trees, Real Impact

How Choosing Real Christmas Trees Helps the Planet

By Chelsea Thomson, Communications Manager

Today is a special day for Swifties—it’s Taylor Swift’s birthday!  And while she’s known for her poetic lyrics and record-breaking tour, any true fan knows that her roots trace back to a Christmas tree farm. Yes, before selling out stadiums, Taylor spent her early years surrounded by the magic of real Christmas trees.

In the spirit of Taylor’s festive beginnings, we’re diving into why real Christmas trees are generally the greenest choice for the holiday season. Whether you’re shaking off environmental guilt or just want to embrace the natural beauty of a tree that could have graced the Swift family farm, here’s why real trees are the ultimate sustainable holiday move.

Why Real Christmas Trees Are Better for the Planet

While artificial trees might seem more convenient, they come with a hidden environmental cost. Real Christmas trees, on the other hand, are the sustainable choice, supporting local farmers and bringing that irreplaceable holiday scent and natural beauty into our homes. And here in Manitoba, the charm of visiting a local Christmas tree farm adds a whole new layer of holiday fun!

One of the biggest advantages of a real tree is that it’s a renewable resource. Christmas trees are grown specifically for the holiday season, meaning they’re planted, cultivated, and eventually harvested as part of an ongoing cycle. For every tree cut down, Christmas tree farms plant new seedlings each spring, keeping the cycle going. Throughout their growth, these trees help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and they create a habitat for wildlife. Once the holiday season ends, real trees can be recycled through local programs and turned into mulch or compost, returning nutrients to the earth.

In contrast, artificial trees are typically made from non-biodegradable plastic and metal, often shipped across continents, which adds a hefty carbon footprint. The David Suzuki Foundation highlights that artificial trees have a carbon footprint three times larger than real trees. 

Your Well-Loved Artificial Tree

If you use your artificial tree for more than 20 years, or if you would have to travel a long distance to get a real tree, an artificial tree could be the more sustainable choice. Better yet, consider finding an artificial tree second-hand by shopping at thrift stores or accepting a hand-me-down from a friend or family member. This way, you give an existing tree a longer life and reduce waste. If you do choose an artificial tree, avoid ones made with PVC and commit to reusing it for at least two decades.

For natural trees, buying local is key. Look for farms that don’t use pesticides or herbicides to ensure your tree is as environmentally friendly as possible. 

The Magic of Visiting a Christmas Tree Farm

Choosing a real tree can also be a holiday adventure in itself, especially if you visit a Christmas tree farm. Manitoba is home to a variety of tree farms where families can experience the magic of picking out the perfect tree together. At many of these farms, you can wander through rows of spruces, pines, and firs, taking in the fresh scent of evergreens, which makes the experience feel like a mini winter forest escape. Many farms offer additional activities like hot cocoa stands, sleigh rides, and even campfires for roasting marshmallows. Some also provide saws for you to cut down your own tree (or they can help cut it for you), adding a satisfying DIY touch to the whole experience. It’s a great way to make lasting memories while supporting local agriculture and getting outside.

Supporting Local Farmers and Sustainable Choices

When you choose a real tree, you’re also supporting local farmers and the local economy. Christmas tree farming in Manitoba requires care, attention, and sustainable practices. Most tree farms are small, family-owned businesses that put time and effort into caring for the land. By buying from a Manitoba Christmas tree farm, you’re helping these families maintain their farms and continue their eco-friendly practices. This support goes a long way, as local farms depend on community engagement and often partner with environmental programs to ensure sustainable growth and harvest.

Where to Find Christmas Tree Farms in Manitoba

One of the best parts about choosing a real Christmas tree is the opportunity to make it a memorable outing with your family. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip close to the city or a full day of festive activities, Manitoba offers plenty of options for finding the perfect tree.

Thanks to Travel Manitoba’s blog, “5 Reasons You Should Turn Your Search for a Christmas Tree Into a Family Adventure”, for their list of some of the top spots to check out this season.

• Country Pines – Tyndall

📍 Just 20 minutes from Winnipeg’s perimeter, Country Pines is a quick and convenient option. On weekends in December, you can select your tree, cut it down, and head home. If you have time to spare, join a “Walk and Talk” tour to learn more about the trees and the farm.

• CD Trees – Steinbach

📍 Located 10 km south of Steinbach, CD Trees is packed with festive fun, making it worth a day trip. Enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, warm up with a variety of hot drinks, browse the indoor Christmas store, and take a walk through the forest. You can pick your own tree using one of their saws or choose a pre-cut option. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly, so bring your furry friends along! Credit, debit, and cash are all accepted.

• Mount Nebo Trees – Between Morden and Miami

📍 For a classic Christmas tree experience, head to Mount Nebo Trees, located north of Morden and south of Miami. Open on weekends through December 15, this tree farm offers a traditional and rustic holiday atmosphere.

Alternative Options

If you prefer something closer or less time-consuming, local garden centers also stock a selection of beautiful Christmas trees. Plus, you can shop for holiday greenery and gifts at their boutique stores.

Feeling Adventurous? Cut Your Own Wild Tree!

The Manitoba Government allows Christmas tree cutting in designated areas for those who want to take their search off the beaten path. For just $9.75, you can purchase a permit from Sustainable Development’s head office and set out on a true outdoor adventure to find your perfect wild tree.

Choosing the Right Tree

Manitoba is home to a variety of trees that are perfect for Christmas celebrations. Many of these species, like spruce and fir, grow naturally in Manitoba’s diverse ecosystems, while others are cultivated on tree farms for the holiday season. Here are some popular options for Christmas trees in Manitoba:

• White Spruce: Manitoba’s provincial tree is a classic choice with dense needles.
• Black Spruce: Compact and hardy, great for smaller spaces.
• Balsam Fir: Known for its strong scent and soft needles.
• Fraser Fir: Excellent needle retention and symmetrical shape.
• Scots Pine: Long-lasting needles and sturdy branches.
• Jack Pine: Unique texture with good needle retention.
• Colorado Blue Spruce: Striking bluish hue with stiff branches.

How to Learn More:

Check out our parent and teacher resource page for more information on Manitoba trees.

For more ideas on how to keep your holidays green, check out the David Suzuki Foundation’s guide to green holidays. Together, we can make the season both magical and sustainable!