Christmas Tree Recycle: What to Do with Your Tree After the Holidays

Some folks buy an artificial Christmas tree that they can use over and over again. Other folks buy a tree with the roots still attached, so it can be planted in the backyard or a nearby forest. But for most Americans, the Christmas tree is purchased as a plant that's been chopped off at the roots.

Unfortunately, that means replanting the tree is not an option. Some people merely toss the tree on to the curb after the holidays, leaving it for the garbage collectors. But you don't have to completely waste your Christmas tree once the season is over and the New Year has arrived. Instead, consider recycling it with one of these suggestions:

A "chipper" program: Many cities and towns run a "chipper" program. Residents are encouraged to put their tree on the curb during a certain morning or day of the week. The city picks up the trees and then processes them through a wood chipper. The chips from the leftover Christmas trees are then used for mulch or ground cover in playgrounds and parks. Check with your local waste management company and your city council to find out about any Christmas tree "chipping" programs that will recycle your tree into mulch.