Save this Black Friday 2023 on artificial Christmas trees

More "ho, ho ho," than "faux, faux, faux", an artificial Christmas tree for your garden is a wonderful way to kindle some festival cheer. The countdown to Christmas is on and it's time to decide on your festive theme and decor outdoors and indoors. There are some wonderful outdoor Christmas decorations and festive wreaths, but the centrepiece of it all is the Christmas tree. If you want your outdoor Christmas tree to be outstanding in its field, there are some points to consider.

Firstly, you've potentially been swayed into considering an artificial Christmas tree because of the great British winter weather. Blustery winds, frost, snow and darkness are the norm this time of year. We look to the twinkle of fairy lights to stoke warm feelings, and this is where an outdoor artificial Christmas tree is a winner.

Black Friday 2023 artificial Christmas tree deals

We interrupt the regularly scheduled content to let you know that although Black Friday is over, there are still plenty of discounts to take advantage of throughout the Cyber weekend, including a whole host of Black Friday deals on artificial Christmas trees. Want to grab a bargain? These are the best deals still available or keep scrolling to continue reading our buyer's guide.

Shop Black Friday Christmas tree deals here: John Lewis | Wayfair | Argos | Amazon | Dunelm | Christmas Tree World

Amazon bestseller: SHATCHI 6FT Alaskan Pine Black/Green WAS £39.39, NOW £29.44
36% off: The Seasonal Aisle Artificial Inflatable Christmas Tree, 210cm WAS £55.99, NOW £35.99
33% off: The Season Aisle Lighted Artificial Pine Tree, WAS £74.99, NOW £49.99
£20 off and selling fast: Habitat 6ft Mixed Cashmere Christmas Tree, WAS £60, NOW £40

They are made to be weather resistant and waterproof - of course, common sense does apply and they're not going to withstand a Beast from the East - but generally, an artificial tree is a tree for all seasons. Most importantly, the vast majority of faux outdoor Christmas trees have lights integrated into them. In the darker months, that evocation of magic, enchantment and whimsy is wholly down to illumination when it comes to outdoor Christmas decorations.

Surprisingly, artificial Christmas trees have been around longer than you'd think. More than 140 years ago in Germany, having a real tree at Christmas was so popular it was causing deforestation. So, goose feather trees were invented. While not as messy as a real tree - they were also not as sturdy and could not be decorated with ornaments. Without further ado, here are the best artificial trees available right now...

Best Christmas trees at a glance

• Best alternative outdoor Christmas tree: The Seasonal Aisle Lighted Artificial Pine Christmas Tree 150cm - View now on Wayfair
• Best budget artificial Christmas tree: Habitat Snow-Covered Christmas Tree - View now on Argos

The best outdoor artificial Christmas trees

The best indoor artificial Christmas trees

You can spruce up your conservatory with an artificial Christmas tree for your home too. With a long lifespan, it's a good investment, as it's brought down from the loft year after year for its month to shine. If your trusty tree has been looking a bit tired the last few years, it could be time to invest in a new one. Alternatively, you may be in the happy position of buying your first tree for a new home. It's a good idea to measure the space that you have available first. Otherwise, there will be no room for presents!

FAQs

What makes artificial trees stand out?

Modern artificial trees can look realistic - more like actually having a tree from Norway than a fake armature of green bristles. The needles themselves come in different shapes: from flat and fine, to 3D for a bushy effect. And you can push the fantasy further with snow-covered and pre-lit trees. There are some enchanting alternatives too, including illuminated weeping willows and twig trees. For novelty, there are fun inflatable trees that will make everyone feel jolly. Budget, space and style are key factors to consider.

Can I recycle my artificial Christmas tree?

Most artificial Christmas trees cannot be recycled because of the combination of metal and plastics. However, an artificial tree should last 10 years. You need to weigh up whether you want to buy a real tree every year (that can be recycled as green waste) or buy one artificial tree.

How is an artificial Christmas tree made?

Making an artificial Christmas tree is a surprisingly hands-on process. Here's a video that has some mesmerising moments, such as the plastic being turned into needles and snow being applied to the branches.

Can I use an artificial Christmas tree outside?

Yes, you can use a tree that is designed specifically for outdoor use. The product description will specify if a tree is for indoor or outdoor use. Never put a tree that has integrated LED lights outside. And winter weather outside can be frightful... so remember to properly secure your outdoor decorations.

What to read next:

Fake foliage for winter: How to keep your garden green

Outdoor garden clocks for passing the time peacefully

The best fire pits and chimineas for all seasons

Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in garden trends. When she's not flexing her mow-how, Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.