Don’t Toss It! Smart Ways to Recycle Your Christmas Tree

If you’re starting to plan out how you will be taking down Christmas decorations this year, there are a few ideas for recycling your tree.

You can use it to add a natural protective layer to your outside plants, adding a blanket of insulation that they may need to stay cozy in the cold. You could also have it chipped into mulch or find a recycling center, but of course make sure all the decorations are off before handing it over. There are also non-profit organizations, like scout troops, that raise funds by picking up christmas trees. You could also talk to your local home owner’s association to explore options for submerging trees, that can provide refuge and feeding areas for fish in local ponds or lakes. All of these options are for real trees but if you have an artificial tree that you’re done with, consider donating it to a shelter or bringing it to a re-sale or thrift shop as they are harder to recycle.