Is it time for your tree to go? Try reusing or recycling your Christmas tree instead of trashing it
There are many, many questions posed during the holiday season: When does the tree go up? What type of lights do we use? When should Christmas music start playing? Do we do Elf on a Shelf? Do we give the trash collector a gift? What are we cooking for Christmas dinner? What activity do we do on Christmas Day? (Correct answers: day after Thanksgiving, multicolored, December 1, I guess, yep, ham, movie.)
The last two questions of the season are usually: When do we take the Christmas tree down and what do we do with it?
Whenever you decide to take the tree down, you probably drop it off at the curb if it’s a live tree. But what if there were some healthier ways to get rid of that monument to holiday cheer? Lucky for you, there are.
Look for local Christmas tree recycling locations. There are various recycling programs or even curbside pickup for recycling in most cities and counties.
Cut up your tree and place it in your yard waste bin instead of the trash can.
Cut or chip up the tree trunk and branches into biodegradable mulch. This feeds the soil in your gardens and landscaping.
Cut up your tree into pieces and sink it in a pond. This can make a great shelter and feeding area for fish.
That’s right, replant it. If your tree is a rooted tree, you can replant it in your yard after Christmas. Keeping the ornaments on it year-round is up to you, though.
Do not burn a tree in your fireplace or stove. These things are extremely flammable and can cause a flare-up or chimney fire. Also, if you own animals, do not feed your Christmas tree to them. Whether an indoor pet or farm animal, trees can be mildly toxic and pine needles, if consumed, can cause intestinal irritation or puncture.
Of course, if you’re feeling really creative, you could always try turning your tree into decorations, a bird house, or even coasters.
Where does Lowe’s get many of the Christmas trees it sells before the holiday season? Read and watch the story of the Sexton Family Farms that Lowe’s has been working with for 25 years.
Lowe’s continues to work toward becoming a more sustainable company with its products, operations and community service.Learn more about Lowe’s Corporate Responsibility.