The Real Choice This Christmas: Tariffs and the Appeal of Live Trees

The Shift Towards Real Christmas Trees

At Dutchman Tree Farms in northern Michigan, the holiday spirit is palpable. Workers are busy cutting and wrapping thousands of pines, as this year they aim to ship more than 500,000 real Christmas trees.

Scott Powell, who manages the 9,000-acre family farm, passionately advocates for the benefits of choosing a real tree. He states, "Our desire is for folks to put a real live North American-grown Christmas tree in their home — tariff-free and grown by families." This highlights a growing trend among American consumers who are re-evaluating their holiday traditions in response to economic factors.

Understanding Tariffs

The tariffs imposed on imported plastic Christmas trees—predominantly manufactured in Asia—have forced many to reconsider their holiday decor choices. Recent reports indicate that these tariffs have increased prices significantly, with the cost now jumping anywhere between 20% to 30% depending on the country of origin. Chris Butler, CEO of the National Tree Company, notes, "We have had to pass along some costs to consumers which has affected the market." This has resulted in a notable price increment on artificial trees, usually priced around $100, rising by approximately $10 to $15, a cost burden many consumers may find difficult to absorb during the holiday season.

"We want to be treated the same as bananas, coffee, mangoes, etc.," said Butler, referring to a recent executive order that exempts certain imported products, while leaving many others — such as artificial trees — to bear the brunt of new tariffs.

A Tradition Under Pressure

The Pena family has traditionally favored real Christmas trees, with David Pena telling CBS News, "The smell triggers those memories growing up, and I just want to provide that for my family." This sentiment underscores a deeper emotional connection that families have with live trees—not just as decor but as vessels of memory and tradition.

Economic Factors and Consumer Choices

With the increasing costs associated with artificial trees due to tariffs, it's no surprise that families are looking again at live trees. While nearly 85% of Americans have historically chosen artificial over real, the pendulum may be shifting back towards nature. Farmers like Powell bet on this resurgence, banking on the rich scent and the joy of a real tree to entice consumers back.

As we head into the festive season, the implications of these tariffs extend beyond mere pricing; they touch upon broader themes of sustainability and local economies. Choosing a real tree not only supports local agriculture but also aligns with an increasingly eco-conscious consumer base willing to make decisions that contribute positively to their communities. This year, by opting for a live Christmas tree, families might find themselves not only saving money but also enriching their holiday tradition.

Conclusion

The combination of tariff pressures and a longing for genuine holiday experiences may tilt the scales back in favor of real Christmas trees. As we move closer to the holiday season, it's essential to consider how our purchasing decisions reflect both our values and economic realities. With many families seeking ways to embrace festive traditions amidst rising costs, the choice of a live tree could very well become the preferred option, marking a shift that transcends mere economics and taps into the heart of what the holidays truly represent.