How To Reuse, Recycle A Real Christmas Tree

ACROSS AMERICA — Decorating the tree usually is among the most beloved and cherished holiday traditions for those celebrating Christmas in the United States.

Getting rid of the tree after the holidays, however, is a different story.

But if you are among the 30 million families who purchase a real Christmas tree, disposing of it doesn't have to be a frustrating or difficult process.

First and foremost, do not try to burn the tree.

Next, reach out to your local city officials and find out what processes are in place for tree disposal in your community. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, most communities have programs and will encourage tree disposal using the following methods:

• Curbside pick-up for recycling: Many cities have in place pickup schedules in the weeks following Christmas. Check with your city for requirements on size, flocking, ornament removal, etc.
• Drop-off recycling centers: Most counties have free drop-off locations. Usually, you can take up to two trees to drop-off locations free of charge.
• Tree recycling/mulching programs: These programs are a fast-growing trend in communities throughout the nation. Check with your local government to see if a similar program us in place.
• Nonprofit pickup: See if any organizations in your area are picking up trees. Some Boy Scout troops offer pickup service for a small donation.

If no community-wide programs are in place, here are a few other ideas to try:

• Fish feeders: Sunk into private fish ponds, trees make an excellent refuge and feeding area for fish.
• Bird feeders: Place the Christmas tree in the garden or backyard and use it as a bird feeder and sanctuary. Fresh orange slices or strung popcorn will attract the birds and they can sit in the branches for shelter. Make sure all decorations, hooks, garland and tinsel strands are removed first. Within a year, the branches will become brittle and you can break the tree apart by hand or with a wood chipper.
• Mulch: A Christmas tree is biodegradable, which means its branches can be removed, chipped, and used as mulch in the garden.
• Plant it again: Get a rooted tree and plant it in your yard after the holidays. It’s a good idea to dig the hole in the late fall while the soil is still soft, then plant the tree there immediately after Christmas. Keep in mind: living trees have a better survival rate in mild climates.