Buying a real tree as opposed to an artificial one, however, is good for the atmosphere, good for the soil and beneficial to other crops, according to Terrlyn Thompson, a senior plant protection officer with the Department of Environment.

"Choosing a natural tree over an artificial one is an environmentally sound decision," she wrote in this month's edition of , the monthly bulletin published by the Ministry of the Environment. "The growth of Christmas trees benefits the environment by stabilising the soil, protecting water supplies and providing refuge for wildlife.

"Christmas trees are often grown on soils that are not able to support other crops. Real Christmas trees also benefit the atmosphere by absorbing carbon dioxide and other gases, and releasing oxygen. This helps to prevent the earth-warming 'greenhouse effect.'

"One acre of Christmas trees provides the daily oxygen requirement for 18 people. For every real Christmas tree harvested, three seedlings are planted in its place. Real trees are therefore a renewable, recyclable, resource.

"Artificial trees last for many years, but when they are finally disposed of, they cannot be recycled. They contain non-biodegradable plastics and metals, which do not disintegrate. Choosing a natural tree is a more environmentally-friendly decision."

Bermudians are faced with three choices of natural Christmas trees, Ms Thompson said. The majority ? 98 per cent ? imported into the island are firs, of which the majority are balsam; Fraser and Douglas comprise a mere two per cent.

"The popular balsam fir has several desirable characteristics as a Christmas tree," she added. "The balsam fir's dark green appearance, attractive form, long-lasting needles and pleasing fragrance make it attractive to buyers. It takes nine to ten years' growth from a seedling to a six-to-seven-foot tree.

"The Fraser fir is another popular Christmas tree species. This fir has outstanding form, good needle retention, short needles which expose a deep bluish-green colour, a pleasant scent and excellent shipping characteristics, all of which make this tree quite a hit. It requires seven to ten years' growth from a seedling to a six-to-seven-foot Fraser fir."

According to the officer, the Fraser's downward cascading branches also make it a wonder to decorate.

"The Douglas fir is not related to the true firs. This Christmas tree has attractive form, dark green or blue green thinner needles that emit a sweet fragrance when crushed. It takes five to seven years from seedling to a six-to-seven-foot Douglas fir Christmas tree."

No matter which type of tree you choose for the holidays, the plant officer advised, the best way to keep it fresh is with plenty of water.

"Excise one-quarter inch off the bottom of the trunk and put it in water immediately. Make sure that the water never runs out. Although you've probably heard of putting additives in the water to keep it fresher, your tree will remain just as fresh with plain water."