7 SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS TO THROWING OUT YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE
Don’t condemn your Christmas tree to landfill when you can give it new life with one of these 7 Sustainable Options To Throwing Out Your Christmas Tree.
You may be asking… Why bother? If disposed in the garbage and brought to city dump, these trees produce methane gas as they decompose or are incinerated contributing to global warming. Read on to find your favorite sustainable options to throwing out a Christmas tree!
RECYCLE ENTIRE TREE
Curbside recycling pickup may be an option in your area, although there are often requirements, such as for the tree size and decoration removal.
Returning your tree to the seller (large tree farms and big box retailers such as Home Depot) or taking it to a recycling center is another great option, especially if your community does not pick up trees. Check to see if your county has drop-off locations or use Earth911’s Recycling Directory to find treecycling programs in your area.
CONSTRUCT PATHWAY EDGING
Cut the trunk of your old tree into 1-inch discs and use them to line your flower beds and walkways.
In addition to adding visual interest to your landscaping, your yard will smell like refreshing pine.
COMPOST TREE BRANCHES
Use your old Christmas tree to supplement your garden soil. According to home tips website The Spruce, a layer of thin branches — such as evergreens — is the best base for a new compost pile:
“This allows a bit of airflow at the bottom of the pile, and the branches will break down over time. Just trim them down so they fit in your bin, then stack them four to six inches high. After you’ve got them in, go ahead and start adding your kitchen scraps and other compostables as usual.”
INSULATE GARDEN PERENNIALS
Your old Christmas tree can help save the lives of the other plants in your garden.
Cut off boughs and lay them over perennial beds to protect them from snow, wind, and frost. As the needles fall off, they become a natural mulch and help the soil retain moisture.
SHELTER FISH
On a big or small scale, the entire tree or branches can be used to create a protected habitat for fish.
Cut and clean branches thoroughly and place a few inside their tank. Or, if you live near a lake or have a pond, and your tree is chemical-free, toss branches into the water to provide sheltering habitat for overwintering fish. (Note: Get permission from town officials if needed.)
CREATE ORNAMENTS
Ornaments aren’t only for the tree!
Cut sections .5-1” thick to create “discs”. Sand each section with heavy grit sandpaper. Do not sand the bark on the edges.
Make ornaments using craft paints and add traditional Christmas messages or motivational sayings, sports teams, etc. Or, decoupage photos and decorate your home and office all year long. These also make excellent gifts and gift tags!
MAKE CANDLE HOLDERS
So many uses for the wood slices/discs of the tree trunk! Nothing has to go to waste.
Cut to desired size and drill holes to fit candlestick or tealights.
Do you have other alternatives to throwing out your Christmas tree after the holidays? Please share your thoughts by commenting below.
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