Treecycling

Those that put up a real tree this holiday season know that the branches are drying up and it’ll be time to move it outdoors. While at it, you might as well be environmentally responsible.


Create a wildlife habitat -

Find a far corner of your yard to drag and drop the tree. Dead trees create a great wildlife habitat for wood dwelling insects, fungi, and occasionally amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, depending on the decay, type of tree, and location.

Consider the water-living creatures, too. You can throw the tree into a lake or pond to create a habitat for fish. It’s not environmentally irresponsible… in fact, it’s the exact opposite.

Use as kindling –

Drag the tree outdoors to make sure it's dry. Then use the old limbs for fire starters and kindling. They crackle and pop, burn brightly, and smell nice ta-boot. Beware of fire hazards and safety concerns though. Checking into potential hazards before burning is advised.

You will be left with the trunk, though. Cutting that up for burning isn’t recommended, because the firewood is too sappy.

Turn into mulch –

Most communities have chipping machines, where you can take your tree, chop it up, and turn it into mulch. Some take the mulch home, while other communities collect it for local landscaping projects. Either way, it’s a win-win.

Create a massive bird feeder –

Take the trim off the top of your tree, plant it in your yard, and you can create a delectable treat for the neighborhood birds. The tree will die there, of course, but not before the giant birdfeeder is enjoyed, especially with the popcorn or nuts you include on the branches. (After use, recycle your tree by using one of the other options.)

Read it to believe it –

Don't think these techniques are actually used? Think again. The National Christmas Tree Association publishes instances of this earth-friendly behavior on its website: http://www.christmastree.org/recycle2.cfm

Haul it away –

Many will be tempted to simply drag the tree to the end of the driveway and drop it. That is a valid option for communities that allow the removal of vegetation in trash pickup.

* To check for these types of treecycling locations and drop-off sites nearest you, visit Earth911.org and enter your city or zip code. More info and directions included.


Tips courtesy of the National Christmas Tree Association and Earth911.

11 ISSUES (1 YEAR)

Only $9.95!
  • Less than $1 an issue.
  • 77% off newsstand price.
  • Includes annual HomeBook.


Everything Home. Everything Local.

You can also add Minnesota Monthly
(12 issues a year) for just $13 more.