Recycling Christmas Trees

Christmas Trees Take on A New Life After the Holidays
Christmas trees are more than just the celebration of life during the holidays, they're a source of life after it. Each year more consumers are discovering the recyclable, renewable benefits of real Christmas trees.

Real Christmas trees, unlike artificial ones which aren't biodegradable and will remain in landfills for centuries after they're disposed of, can provide something back to the environment in a variety of ways:

Christmas trees are biodegradable - the trunk and branches can be used as mulch for gardens, parks or in animal stalls. The mulch provides a protect barrier for the roots of other plants and vegetation while preventing weeds from growing. The mulch then decomposes, providing the nutrients plants need to thrive.

Mulching programs are a fast-growing trend in communities throughout the state. Check with your local department of public works for information.

Some communities use Christmas trees to make effective sand and soil erosion barriers, especially at beaches and on river beds. Sunk into private fish ponds trees make excellent refuge and feeding area for fish. Before recycling, Christmas trees can be used to make bird feeders, adding color and excitement to the winter garden. Utilize orange slices, suet, and seed to attract the birds. They will come for the food and stay for the shelter in the branches.

Important: Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove. Burning the tree may contribute to creosote buildup.