Choosing a Christmas tree sounds simple—until you’re standing there trying to decide between live and artificial, wondering which one actually makes sense for your home, your lifestyle, and your time.
That exact conversation came up during a recent Hire it Done episode
, where Adam Helfman spoke with Ashley Thomas of Sherwood Forest Garden Center about what homeowners often overlook when making this decision.
If you’ve ever bought a tree and regretted it a week later, this breakdown is for you.
The Right Tree Sets the Tone
Your Christmas tree isn’t just another decoration. It’s the centerpiece of your holiday home.
Everything else—lights, ornaments, garland, even furniture placement—ends up revolving around it. That’s why choosing the wrong type of tree can quietly create stress all season long.
Ashley emphasized that the decision between live and artificial should never be rushed. The right tree supports how you decorate, how you live, and how much time you realistically want to spend maintaining it.
Why Homeowners Still Love Live Trees
There’s a reason live Christmas trees remain popular, especially in SE Michigan.
Live trees bring authenticity.
They smell like the holidays, feel natural in the space, and instantly create a sense of tradition.
For many families, picking out a live tree is part of the experience—not just a purchase.
At Sherwood Forest Garden Center, homeowners can choose from several live tree varieties, each serving a different purpose.
Fraser Firs from Michigan and North Carolina are known for sturdy branches that can hold heavier ornaments. Concolor Firs offer a softer look with a subtle citrus scent. Scotch Pines are more affordable and familiar, especially for families continuing long-standing traditions.
The key is matching the tree to how you decorate—not the other way around.
When Live Trees Make the Most Sense
A live tree works best if you value tradition, fragrance, and authenticity. It’s also ideal if you decorate once and keep the look consistent through the season.
However, live trees do require attention. Placement matters. Ashley strongly advised against placing a live tree near heating vents, which dries out branches and shortens the tree’s lifespan.
Watering, needle drop, and timely removal all come with the territory. If you’re prepared for that responsibility, a live tree can be incredibly rewarding.
The Case for Artificial Trees
Artificial trees have come a long way—and homeowners are noticing.
Modern artificial trees are safer, better lit, and far more reliable than older versions. One burned-out bulb no longer shuts down the entire tree, and many models come pre-lit to reduce setup time.
Artificial trees work well for homeowners who want consistency year after year. If you like your décor to look the same each season or prefer minimal cleanup, artificial may be the better option.
Ashley also pointed out that artificial trees are ideal for homes with pets, limited space, or busy schedules.
When Artificial Trees Are the Smarter Choice
Artificial trees make sense if you want convenience and predictability.
If you’re decorating multiple rooms, hosting frequently, or setting up early in the season, an artificial tree reduces stress. There’s no watering schedule, no needles to clean, and no urgency to take it down by early January.
They’re also a solid option for homeowners who want to build a long-term decorating system—adding new décor each year without starting from scratch.
Ornament Weight Matters More Than You Think
One detail homeowners often miss is how ornament weight affects tree choice.
Ashley explained that not all trees—live or artificial—handle heavy ornaments well. Fraser Firs, for example, are ideal for heavier décor, while softer trees may require lighter accents.
Choosing a tree without considering ornament weight leads to sagging branches and uneven visuals. That’s where expert guidance makes a difference.
At Sherwood Forest Garden Center, staff help homeowners select trees based on décor style, not just height or price.
Cost Isn’t Just About the Tree
It’s easy to compare prices and assume artificial trees are more expensive upfront, while live trees cost less. But that’s only part of the equation.
Live trees are an annual purchase. Artificial trees are an investment that spreads out over time.
Ashley noted that live tree prices at Sherwood Forest Garden Center range from affordable options to premium selections, depending on size and species. Artificial trees vary just as widely based on quality and lighting features.
The smarter comparison is value—not sticker price.
Decorating Style Should Drive the Decision
Your decorating style should guide your choice more than trends or opinions.
If you love changing themes each year, an artificial tree gives you a consistent base. If you enjoy a classic, natural look, a live tree complements that style beautifully.
Ashley shared that many homeowners bring photos of past trees to the garden center. That visual reference helps staff guide them toward the right option—saving time and avoiding mismatched purchases.
Safety Is Part of the Decision
Safety should never be an afterthought, especially during the holidays.
Live trees require proper hydration and placement to reduce fire risk. Artificial trees must be rated for indoor use and paired with quality lighting.
Sherwood Forest Garden Center prioritizes products that meet safety standards and withstand Michigan winters, whether used indoors or outdoors.
That attention to safety is one reason homeowners trust local experts over big-box stores.
You Don’t Have to Decide Alone
One of the strongest messages from the Hire It Done episode was this: homeowners don’t need to figure everything out on their own.
Whether you’re choosing a tree, redesigning your décor, or deciding how much help you need, professional guidance eliminates guesswork.
Ashley and her team don’t just sell trees—they help homeowners make confident decisions that fit their homes and lifestyles.
Final Thoughts for SE Michigan Homeowners
There’s no universal “right” answer when it comes to live vs. artificial Christmas trees.
The right choice is the one that fits your home, your schedule, and how you want the season to feel.
As discussed in this recent Hire It Done episode, when you approach holiday decorating with intention—and lean on trusted professionals—you avoid stress and enjoy the season the way it’s meant to be.
If you’re unsure which tree works best for you, start with expert advice and don’t be afraid to hire it done.
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