Christmas Tree Recycling Options for Disposal

It's the new year. Old Christmas trees can serve a new purpose.

Preparation Before Recycling or Disposal:

• Potted Live tree with Roots

  • If your tree is in a container or has balled roots in a planter, consider transitioning it to your landscape after the holidays. Make sure to follow proper steps for planting it to ensure successful replanting.

• Trees with flocking spray can not be recycled

  • The addition of flocking (artificial snow spray) on the evergreen branches contain chemicals that can make the tree un-recyclable.

• Remove Decorations:

  • Remove all ornaments, bows, tinsel, garland, and any other holiday decorations from the tree before leaving it for curbside pickup or taking it to a drop-off location. The remaining decorations can get tangled in wood chippers during the recycling process to make mulch.

• Cut Larger Trees:

  • If your tree is over 7 feet, you may need to cut it into smaller sections based on the requirements of the drop-off program you choose.

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    Natural Christmas tree by curb for trash pick up (Getty Images)

    
    

Innovative Ways to Recycle Your Christmas Tree:

1. Chip and Mulch:

   • Rent or buy a woodchipper to process the tree into mulch. This can be a fun community project, where everyone can take a share of the mulch after it's been aged for a year. It’s great for gardens!

2. Erosion Barriers:

   • In some communities, discarded trees are used to help stabilize beaches and shorelines. This prevents erosion and supports local ecosystems.

3. Feeding Fish:

   • Sinking trees into ponds provides shelter and food for fish. Check with local authorities to see if they collect trees for this purpose.

4. Feeding Birds:

   • Consider placing the bare tree in your backyard. It can serve as a habitat for birds, providing shelter and a place to feed during the colder months.

5. Feeding Goats: Goats are herbivores and can consume evergreen trees. Before you offer any food to animals always check with the owners. Your local farmers or farmers market cheese makers may be contacted to determine a if they may be able to use your tree for goat feed.