You're green at heart. You love the idea of a potted, live Christmas tree you can reuse year after year. It's just that—for whatever reason—you bought a regular Christmas tree this year. And you’ll need to dispose of it soon.

Take heart. Most Christmas trees can be recycled into mulch. Try to find a drop-off location in your community. Some towns offer curbside pickup and free mulching because they use the mulch for municipal landscaping or sell it at a discount to gardeners.

Christmas Tree Recycling

If your community doesn’t offer curbside pickup—or some other recycling option—there are other ways to reuse your tree.

• Provide Shelter for Wildlife

  Consider placing the tree at the edge of your property to create a winter shelter for birds and small animals.

• Create a Winter Mulch

  Cut off a few boughs and spread them over your garden as a protective winter mulch.

• Create a Birdfeeder

  Spread small branches with an edible, naturally sticky substance like peanut butter or shortening. Dip the branches in birdseed, and you’ve created a natural bird feeder. Tie the nourishing branches to other trees in your yard.

• Save It For Firewood

  Cut the trunk of your Christmas tree into small logs, and store them in a dry place. They’ll be ready to burn next year. If you don’t have a fireplace, gift the logs to someone who does!