I'm considering an artificial tree for next Christmas. Any suggestions as to what kind will look most real?

I would definitely go now and get one. They are on sale now. You save a bundle and then you don't have to look next year. I have an artificial Douglas fir, it's 7 1/2 feet tall, with a girth of 5 1/2 feet wide. I opted for a non prelite because I wanted to be able to change the lights and colors every year. Mine is very nice looking, and very full. Everyone that comes over thinks it is real when they first see it. I use room spray to get that fresh tree smell. I think I paid 78 dollars for mine, I bought mine at full price and I love mine. I won't buy a fresh cut tree. If you want to see a pic of it then email me at sks_qtpie@yahoo.com good luck shopping.

Before you decide, consider this:

Artificial trees are just that. They wind up looking shabby, and when they're thrown in the garbage, they're not biodegradable. Even if they're burned, they release toxins into the air.

Real trees help clean the air, and turn carbon dioxide into oxygen that humans and animals need to breathe. They are a renewable resource; plastic, which is petroleum-based, is not. Trees help the environment by retaining water and preventing erosion; used trees can be chipped for mulch, and some sea-coast communities dump them in the ocean as a habitat for marine life. Also, buying a pre-cut tree or cutting your own at a tree farm help the agricultural community, and they can use all the help they can get. Artificial trees don't do any of that.

Of course, it's up to you whether you buy an artificial tree or not. I just ask that you look at both sides of the question.

Artificial

There are so many authentic looking artificial Christmas trees out there. There are even natural-looking artificial trees that boast pine cones and wood bases. Remember, If you have heavy ornaments, you are going to want to go with one that has sturdy branches. Check out the links below, as there are some really pretty cool ones out there.

Don't buy one on-line, do it in person. The better ones have longer needles. And don't think you have to pay a fortune; I got mine at Michael's and it was at a time when I paid 50% less...so at around $200, I have a 7-1/2 foot tree, that is really nice, not a cheap, fake looking one.

Check out the ones on clearance at your local Kmart. Their Martha Stewart line of trees are really nice and are now on clearance at 50% off.

QVC has some awesome pre lit trees.

Jer 10:3 - Jer 10: 4 Might help you decide.