The holiday season concluded several months ago, leaving countless Christmas trees discarded by the roadside; yesterday's treasured holiday emblem rapidly turned into today's refuse.
It feels somewhat melancholic, doesn't it? (Unless, of course, you've opted for an artificial tree. In that scenario, your tree is safely stored, eagerly waiting to become the centerpiece of holiday festivity once more in a few months!)
Ever thought about the fate of Christmas trees every year after the celebrations end? We were curious, so we embarked on some research and found that the story doesn't end so gloomily for many of those cast-off trees.
Recycling Methods for Christmas Trees
Numerous abandoned Christmas trees go on to provide benefits in ways vastly different from their previous roles as festive symbols, yet equally significant. Here are some intriguing uses we discovered for discarded Christmas trees:
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Mulch Production:
Many trees are turned into mulch, which serves various purposes such as landscaping, gardening, and erosion control. Mulch from Christmas trees is also employed to cushion pathways for runners and walkers on recreational trails.
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Fish Habitats:
Fish prefer sheltered areas to gather, relax, and find food, but many lakebeds are barren. Consequently, numerous Christmas trees are submerged in lakes, creating fish-friendly habitats. These trees are secured with weights like concrete or chains and dropped into strategic locations to benefit aquatic life.
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Bird Feeders:
Some Christmas trees make a pit stop in the backyard before final disposal, much to the delight of local birds. After removing decorations, many people transform their trees into temporary bird feeders. The trees start to decompose after several weeks but can be adorned with edible treats for birds in the meantime, such as:
- Strings of popcorn or dried fruit
- Suet cakes, suet balls, or small mesh bags of suet
- Birdseed ornaments
- Strings of peanuts (unshelled)
- Strings of unsweetened cereal (e.g., Cheerios)
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Beach Stabilizers:
Many coastal communities utilize discarded Christmas trees to minimize wind erosion on beaches and stabilize sand dunes. In Bradley Beach, New Jersey, the Mayor even credited Christmas trees with helping mitigate damage from Hurricane Sandy.
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Zoo Treats:
Certain zoo animals, such as giraffes and zebras, enjoy discarded Christmas trees as delicious snacks, making a local zoo the final stop for some trees.
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Energy Source:
Some communities convert Christmas trees into fuel for power plants. The wood is processed into mulch and fed into an energy-generating facility. For instance, Burlington, Vermont, collects residents' Christmas trees, grinds them into mulch, and uses the material in their 50-megawatt power plant.
Wondering how to dispose of your Christmas tree? Various options make recycling your tree simple. Many neighborhoods provide pickup services a few days after Christmas and during early January. Just place the tree by the curb before the designated pickup time. Check your local recycling provider's website for details on pickup times and any specific instructions. If your tree exceeds 8 feet, consider cutting it into smaller sections.
Dropping off your old tree is another option, with services available in late December and January, often more convenient for disposal. If your tree stays up for an extended period (over a few weeks), break it down into smaller pieces for compost or yard waste bins. Numerous local options ensure your tree is responsibly reused and recycled.
Advantages of Artificial Christmas Trees
Purchasing an artificial Christmas tree eliminates concerns about disposal. Moreover, artificial trees come with several benefits that make them an appealing and functional choice for holiday celebrations at home.
Although artificial trees often have a higher initial cost compared to real ones, they can save money over time. An artificial tree can last several years, essentially covering the cost of multiple real trees. You can also keep the tree up longer each year, allowing you to start decorating right after Thanksgiving.
Setting up and taking down an artificial tree is notably easier. Assembly is straightforward, and only minor adjustments are needed to achieve a well-shaped appearance. Additionally, you avoid dealing with fallen needles, sap, and fire hazards from dry branches. The benefits of an artificial tree far outweigh the downsides for many homeowners.
If You Were a Tree…
Ever encountered the interview question, “If you were a tree, what kind would you be?”
It seems a bit whimsical, doesn't it? But if I were to choose, I'd like to be a Christmas tree.
I'd be the centerpiece of the most joyous season, adorned with twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments. People would feel warmth and happiness just by looking at me. I'd witness the sheer delight of children discovering their Christmas gifts. And once the holiday season concludes, I'd have a new, noble purpose – one that improves the world.
Not a bad life for a tree, is it?
Choosing a Christmas Tree
While artificial trees have their advantages, the natural look and fragrance of a live tree can be equally enticing. Opt for the tree type that best suits your home without overthinking it. Whether you choose a real or artificial tree, consider updating your holiday decorations to help you and your family embrace the Christmas spirit.
Gift All Season offers ornaments, wreaths, LED tree lights, and other decorations all year round, allowing you to plan your holiday décor well in advance.
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