Benefits of Treecycling Your Christmas Tree
As the year comes to a close, many Iowa families are gearing up to take down their Christmas trees tomorrow, marking the end of a festive season and the beginning of a fresh start. But before you rush to the curb to dispose of your tree, consider the benefits of treecycling – a sustainable and eco-friendly way to repurpose your holiday decor.
What is Treecycling?
Horticulturist and extension educator John Fech emphasizes the importance of not simply discarding your tree but finding creative ways to give it new life. Treecycling involves recycling, reusing, and viewing your tree as a valuable resource or asset rather than just another piece of holiday debris.
Creative Ways to Treecycle
If you’re feeling crafty, there are countless ways to repurpose your tree. Trim the branches to create fragrant sachets, wreaths, or garlands that will fill your home with the scent of the holidays for weeks to come. For gardeners, laying small limbs over tender perennials can provide much-needed protection against fluctuating winter temperatures.
Environmentally-Friendly Options
Fech suggests mulching as another treecycling option. Whether you choose to do it yourself with a hatchet or have the tree run through a chipper, the resulting mulch can be used to cover trails in city parks, hospitals, and other public spaces. Alternatively, returning the tree to nature for wildlife to use as shelter can create a sustainable habitat for local birds and other wildlife.
Simple Tips for Every Gardener
For those looking for an easy treecycling solution, using the needles as mulch on perennial plants or in your garden can help keep weeds in check and nourish your soil. By taking a few simple steps to treecycle your Christmas tree, you can make a positive impact on the environment and enjoy the beauty of the holiday season long after the decorations come down.
So, as you bid farewell to your Christmas tree this year, consider the many benefits of treecycling and discover creative ways to give your holiday centerpiece a second life. From fragrant sachets to wildlife habitats, there’s no limit to the possibilities when it comes to treecycling your tree. Let’s make this holiday season not only joyful but also sustainable for our planet.
