DELRAY BEACH, FL, Nov 30, 2024—Once the holidays have calmed down and you've stripped your space of its decor, you may wonder what to do with that holiday tree. Before you drag it outside to the curb, consider the following ideas from Anne Kraft, Real Estate Professional of Long & Foster.
Recycle it. Some local governments offer tree recycling programs, typically established near recycling centers, where trees are run through a chipper and turned into mulch, Kraft reminds us. Many cities even offer designated tree pickup dates. Check with your local government for details.
Ask your town. Outside of chipping trees into mulch, some towns have come up with unique ways to reuse their trees, like building berms. Ask your town officials to see if there are any innovative programs in the works for tree reuse.
Make firewood for an outdoor fire. If you love a good fire pit, chop your tree up and let your logs dry out, which can take up to a few months. Then, use your holiday logs to stoke a bonfire this spring. "Make sure not to burn your tree indoors," says Kraft. Christmas trees release the toxic substance creosote when they burn. While this is an okay substance to be released outdoors, you don't want it building up in your chimney inside.
Throw a "chipping" party. Here's a fun idea: rent a wood chipper and invite all of your friends over to chip their christmas trees. Then, you can split the chips to mulch your garden beds. Just be sure to follow all safety procedures when chipping those trees.
A tip for next year. The best thing to do with your holiday tree is plant it, says Kraft. This means purchasing a potted tree, or one with its roots knotted up in burlap. Once you're done enjoying it inside, you can plant it outdoors and watch it grow.
For information on real estate, please contact Long & Foster at anne.kraft@top5inrealestate.com, 561-276-6409, or Long & Foster.