How to Recycle Your Christmas Tree in Maryland
Well, you bought a fresh, real tree for Christmas and after enjoying the scent of evergreen in your home for a few weeks, it’s time to take down the tree. So, what is the best way to dispose of it? Recycle your Christmas tree! Many locations across Maryland offer curbside recycling services through the first two weeks in January. Here are some things you need to know to get your tree recycle-ready.
Preparing a Tree for Recycling
Take everything off of the tree, including lights, tinsel, ornaments, nails, and other non-organic materials. Remove the tree stand also. Never burn your tree in a fireplace or wood stove. Branches can contribute to creosote buildup and cause a chimney fire.
Where to Recycle You Christmas Tree
Once your tree is ready for recycling, many cities, counties, and neighborhoods across Maryland offer free services. Check here for more information on recycling options. Follow the links to your area. You may also want to call your local government for the most up-to-date notices.
Aside from curbside pickup, you can take your tree to a recycling center. Most counties have free drop-off locations. Check with your local department of public works to find out about area tree recycling and mulching programs. Most trees are chipped and made into mulch which is usually free to city and county residents. Some nonprofit organizations may also pick up your tree.
DIY Recycling Options
There are other options to recycle your Christmas tree. Some communities make sand and soil erosion barriers. Trees sunk into private fish ponds provide a refuge and feeding area for fish. Put the tree in the backyard or garden and use it as a bird feeder and sanctuary. Since the tree is biodegradable, it can be chipped up and used as mulch. Some areas use shredded trees for natural path material on hiking trails. If you buy a rooted tree, plant it in your yard after Christmas.
Have a Creative Side? Make Recycled Tree Crafts
Americans chop down 25 to 30 million trees annually to celebrate Christmas, according to the National Christmas Tree Association. Many of these trees end up in landfills when the season is done. Don’t let yours be one of them. There are many ways you can creatively repurpose your tree.
Make a Bird Feeder
Cut off the branches, cover them in butter, then roll them in bird seeds. Hang the branch in your garden and watch a few feathered friends drop by!
Recycle Your Christmas Tree Trunk
Give your Christmas tree trunk a new life by cutting it into small round pieces to put in the garden. Use them around the edge or sand, polish, and paint them to make coasters.
Take Advantage of Pine Needles
Turn pine needles into fragrant sachets. Put the needles into small fabric bags, tie them together with ribbon, and add a fresh scent to drawers or your wardrobe. These also make great gifts.
Make a Door Wreath
Use the branches to make a wreath for the New Year. Use binding wire, scissors, and craft foam to start, then add pinecones and other winter finds to dress it up. Beautiful!
Want to Freshen Up Your Deck or Fence?
When the holidays are over, carry your inspiration into January and make plans to freshen your outdoor look for spring. Excel Fencing and Decking is your number-one source in the Greater Baltimore Region for all of your fencing and decking needs. We provide superior service to Cecil, Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Anne Arundel Counties. Call us directly at 410-803-9499 or fill out our contact form for more information.