Christmas tree rentals a more sustainable option

For those who prefer a real, live Christmas tree, it can be a tall task hunting through the snow and cold, chopping it down, and then disposing of a tree at the end of the holiday season.

 Farlinger farms, located just outside of Edmonton, has come up with a solution that benefits you, the tree, and the environment.

This is the fifth year of the Christmas tree rental program.

“All of these trees behind me, they’re all in little pots with their root ball attached, and until the tree is mature enough they can be moved around in their individual bags,” said Carmen Laarhuis, Manager, Farlinger Farms.

The trees range in height from 4 feet to just over 6 feet, the price to rent one is between 50 and 100 dollars depending on the size, along with a deposit in case the tree is damaged.

The rental period is 24 days.

“They’re in their dormant season right now, so 24 days, it keeps them in that dormant season and secures the health of the tree,” said Laarhuis.

When it comes to selecting your tree, you have a few options. You can go online, submit a request, and come out to Farlinger Farms to pick your tree. Starting December sixth, you can head to bountiful farmers market in Edmonton, where Farlinger Farms will have a seacan set up to pick your perfect tree

“We have all the benefits of a living tree the scents, the nostalgia, everything to go with it, but without the environmental impact,” said Laarhuise.

If you’re wondering what happens to the tree once your rental is over.

After the Christmas season is over,  the farm ensures your Christmas  tree continues it’s life.

“Instead of ending up in a landfill, they end up back here in our nursery where they will live the rest of their lives. At a certain point, we usually say at around 7 to 8 feet, we will then have to plant them in the ground, or someone can even rent the tree for Christmas and then they can plant it in their yard come spring,” said Laarhuise.