Friday, December 26, 2014

How To Compost and Recycle Christmas Trees and Wreaths

Don't Trash that Tree!
What can you do with your Christmas tree and Christmas wreaths after the holidays? Just recycle and compost them instead of trashing the planet!  The following pictorial and tips will walk you through it every step of the way.
Step by Step Directions:
To dismantle, simply cut the tree branches with hand pruners until you end up with a tree trunk, some loose branches and a recycle bin full of twigs and leaves.  
See steps 1,2 and 3, then to dispose, compost or recycle the parts read the tips below:
Step 1: 

Step 2: 
Step 3: 
Casasugar suggests you can do the following:
  • Mulch it! Mulching programs are common in communities. Check with your local department of public works for information on mulching your tree, or see if it can be left with your green bin. (or mulch in your yard)
  • Stop erosion. See if your community uses Christmas trees as soil erosion barriers. These barriers are particularly effective along beaches and on river beds.
  • It's for the birds! Place the Christmas tree in the garden or backyard and use it as a bird feeder and sanctuary. Make your tree extra-irresistible by placing fresh orange slices or strung popcorn in the branches.
  • Garden mulch. Since a Christmas tree is biodegradable, its branches may be removed, chipped, and used as mulch in the garden. 
  • Don't burn it in your fireplace! This can contribute to creosote buildup in your chimney, and most Christmas trees will dangerously pop and spark in a fire. 
Also from Consider recycling your tree.  Planetpals complete Christmas Tree and Wreath Recycle Guide
Lastly, Consider This!
Next year, think about getting a live, rooted tree, which you can then plant in your yard after Christmas! 
 HAPPY SAFE AND GREEN HOLIDAYS PALS!

Learn more about composting with Squirmy Wormy at Planetpals.com