It’s the most wonderful time of the year, filled with sparkling lights, Christmas tree family gatherings, and excited children with their eyes all aglow.
But before you know it, the holiday season will be over and all you’ll have left to show for it are paper cuts from wrapping dozens of presents, a maxed-out credit card, and a dried-up Christmas tree laying on the curb waiting to be hauled away.
Well, live trees still must be removed, but wouldn’t it be better to repurpose than simply dispose of it?
Here’s how your local recycling center can put it to beneficial use:
- Shred and chip the tree for use on hiking trails.
- Tree chips can be used as garden mulch to help retain the soil’s moisture and prevent weeds.
- Works great as part of soil erosion barriers
And now it’s your turn:
- Insulate perennials – Cut off the boughs and lay them over perennial beds to protect them from snow and reduce frost heaving.
- Edge your borders – Cut the trunk into 2-inch discs and set them into the soil to edge flower beds or walkways.
- Prop up vases and containers – Saw the trunk into different lengths and use the pieces as flowerpot risers for a dramatic group display.
- Feed the fire pit – Ad, bad idea to burn a Christmas tree in your fireplace, but a dry tree with its quick-to-ignite branches is a great way to jump start a controlled outdoor fire.
Recycling or re-purposing your Christmas tree doesn’t save you time or work…in fact, most of the above suggestions add to your workload. But it’s all time well spent if you have the time, tools, ideas, and need.
Here at Anthony’s, we’re busy throughout the holiday season, too, helping to keep our customers safe, warm, and comfortable. We’re always ready to do the same for you. Happy Holidays!
