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Outdoor Christmas Trees: Trendy or Tacky?

It’s finally the most joyful time of the year! You’ve got the hallways decked and the holiday music blasting, but if you’re looking for a creative way to make your home’s exterior sparkle, why not add an outdoor Christmas tree this year to the mix? 

What Are Outdoor Christmas Trees and How Do They Work?

Outdoor Christmas trees are an innovative way to decorate your home for the festive season. Instead of having your tree indoors, or in addition to your traditional tree, you can place one for display right outside your home. This adds a unique element to your typical outdoor home decor like a string of lights and holiday figurines. 

Getting started is easy! Simply choose from outdoor designated trees in whatever shape, size, color, or style best suits your home’s aesthetic. Then, find original ways to add decor that are outdoor-proof, like timed nights, music from speakers, and weighted garlands. 

Pros of Having an Outdoor Christmas Tree

If you’re interested in a more environmentally friendly version of a Christmas tree, you can choose to decorate a tree in your yard instead of buying a new one or contributing to the waste of natural Christmas trees each year. Plus, outdoor trees don’t contribute to indoor air pollution or toxins circulating in your environment. 

It’s also much more cost-effective, as many high-quality trees, both artificial and fresh, can cost upwards of $100. However, if you do decide to purchase an artificial outdoor tree, it has the potential to last many years if proper protective measures are taken. 

Cons of Having an Outdoor Christmas Tree

Unfortunately, outdoor trees need to be cared for just as much as indoor ones. Make sure your tree is away from potential fire hazards, like Christmas lights that have been left on for too long. 

You might need to invest in timed and battery-powered lights to prevent overheating and to avoid unsightly cords connecting to a power source. Also, your lights and decorations will be more at risk for damage from weather and animals, so take precautions to not place your most beloved or fragile pieces on display. 

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Christmas Tree for Your Home

Before selecting your tree, consider the size, material, and look you are going for. Larger homes may benefit from wider or taller trees to really stand out, while smaller homes look great with petite trees or even a cluster of several small trees for a festive forest appearance. 

Depending on the climate, you’ll also need to evaluate which type of tree can withstand the elements in your area. Wet climates are best for PVC or plastic models, while dry climates pair beautifully with creative materials like wood or metal. 

Where to Buy an Outdoor Christmas Tree

You can easily find the perfect tree from a variety of local retailers with garden centers like Target, Walmart, Lowe’s, or Home Depot. If you’re interested in supporting local businesses, search for your neighborhood garden nursery, which is likely to have both artificial and authentic options to suit your needs. 

How to Decorate Your Outdoor Christmas Tree

Part of the fun of outdoor trees is the creativity you can express by incorporating indoor and outdoor elements together. For example, try using birdseed sacks instead of traditional ornaments as a beautiful way to support the local wildlife. You can also create a tree slip using fresh or planted flowers instead of fabric, or a natural garland made from berries and freshly gathered ferns. The possibilities are endless!