At a Glance
- 10 million live Christmas trees end up in landfills annually.
- Anaerobic decomposition in soil releases methane and carbon dioxide.
- Alternatives include using branches as mulch, cutting the trunk for firewood, creating wildlife shelters, or donating to local programs.
- Why it matters: Reducing landfill waste protects the environment and can benefit your garden or local wildlife.
After the holiday cheer fades, many of us wonder what to do with the pine or fir that once brightened our living rooms. The Nature Conservancy reports that a staggering 10 million trees land in landfills each year, where they decompose slowly and release greenhouse gases. Fortunately, there are several eco-friendly options that can turn that waste into garden mulch, firewood, wildlife habitat, or community resources.
From Tree to Mulch and Firewood
Removing ornaments and tinsel is the first step. Then, as one homeowner did, cut branches with pruners and scatter them in the garden to insulate soil and protect bulbs during winter. After the trunk is sawn into segments, it can dry over winter and be burned for firewood, while the leftover branches can be chopped into mulch for spring.
- Cut and remove ornaments, tinsel, and fake snow.
- Distribute branches around the garden to insulate soil.
- Saw trunk into segments; dry over winter.
- Burn dried wood in a fire pit.
- Reuse brittle branches as mulch in spring.
Wildlife Havens
A whole tree can serve as a shelter for fish if sunk in a pond, or as a birdhouse if left standing in the yard. Securing the tree prevents it from tipping in wind, and hanging a feeder encourages non-migratory birds to nest.
- Sink tree in pond for fish shelter.
- Place standing tree in yard for birds.
- Secure to avoid tipping.
- Hang a feeder to attract birds.
Local Programs
Many communities organize tree-collection events after the holidays, using the wood to reinforce sand dunes, combat erosion, or supply mulch to homeowners. Some municipalities chip the trees and distribute the mulch free of charge. Farmers also welcome donated trees as livestock feed.
Key Takeaways
- Turning a Christmas tree into mulch or firewood reduces landfill waste and benefits the garden.
- The tree can also become valuable wildlife habitat or a community resource.
- Local programs often accept trees and provide free mulch or other services.
By repurposing your holiday tree, you not only cut down on waste but also give back to your garden, wildlife, and community.
