The day after Christmas is the saddest day of the year for me. It's the time when to start packing up all the decorations and storing them in the attic until next Christmas. No more sparkling lights, tinsel, ornaments of sugar plums and ginger bread men; no more figurines of Santa and his bright red nose. While all these decorations can easily be stored in boxes, what can you do with the Christmas tree? If you chose a real Christmas tree this year, there are many ways your Christmas tree can be recycled.
Some Christmas trees can be picked up on the curbside for recycling the two weeks following Christmas. You should check with your area if this is provided. You can also go to your nearest recycling center and have your tree dropped off there. Before sending your tree to be recycled, make sure all decorations and ornaments are removed including tree stands and water bowls.
There are ways you can you use the tree around your house if you want to keep it. You can cut the branches off and lay them over perrenials to help control temperature fluctuations and guard against winter weather. You can also chop the tree into firewood or chips to keep your house warm. A standard sized tree can be turned into 13 pounds of firewood.
Your tree can also be used as a shelter for animals. Put the tree in your backyard so that wildlife can use is as a sanctuary from the winter cold. Put bird seeds or different types of food like popcorn kernels to use the tree as a feeder for birds. The tree can also be sunk in a pond or lake and be used as a shelter for fish as a place where they can safely feed.
Depending on the type of tree, you may be able to replant it in your backyard. So next year, if you want a beautiful pine tree in your backyard even after Christmas, consider getting a tree that's rooted and containerized.
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