Community Corner
Recycling and Reusing the Christmas Tree
Taking down the tree this weekend? Here are some re-purposing and recycling alternatives for your tree.
With the echoes of the Christmas cheer and New Year’s greetings ringing in our ears, it’s time to think about taking down the beloved Christmas tree.
Here in Greendale, you can put your tree on the curb and it will be picked up, by either the village or the garbage collection service.
The Department of Public Works sends trucks around the village to pick up the trees. The trees will be chipped and available for residents to use as mulching, Public Works Direct Robert Mcfaul said.
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"We try not to have them picked up with the trash," he said.
If the tree is put out and picked up with the trash, it will be taken to the landfill for composting, which still isn't a bad alternative. The compost is used by Milwaukee County in various areas, including the Milwaukee County Zoo, Mcfaul said.
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But have you considered other uses for your old tree?
Here are a few tips from horticulturist Melinda Myers and the National Christmas Tree Association on how to re-purpose and recycle your Christmas tree:
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Use it as a windbreak for more sensitive plantings.
"Strategically place discarded Christmas trees on the windward side of rhododendron, boxwood and other broadleaf evergreens to reduce problems with winter burn." -- Myers
Use branches as winter mulch over bulbs and perennials.
"This winter mulch will keep the soil consistently cold, reducing the risk of early sprouting and winter damage that can occur during winter thaws." -- Myers
Decorate your yard with the tree. Set the tree in the landscape for a bit of added greenery and shelter for birds.
Use it as a bird feeder: You can decorate the tree with fruits, berries, and seeds the birds will enjoy.
As spring arrives, use chipped and shredded trees for mulch.
One last important tip: Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove.
