The holiday season is officially here, and there’s nothing quite like a beautiful Christmas tree to bring the spirit of the season into your home!
Despite growing up in a house full of arborists, my family always had a fake tree when I was a child. But when I got married, Heather and I decided it was time to get our first real tree, and it’s become a beloved tradition in the Ahlum household. Every year we pack up the car and drive to pick out the perfect one! I even made a custom stand to hold it, and the whole day has become a cherished event for our family.
From choosing the right tree and ensuring it stays fresh all season long, to finally recycling it in an environmentally friendly way, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your holiday centerpiece.
Before You Pick Out Your Tree
Remember that location matters! Identify and choose a spot in your home away from heaters, fireplaces or vents to put your tree. Excessive exposure to heat can dry out your tree quickly, leading to brittle needles and dull color.
Place the tree where it’s unlikely to be bumped or knocked over, keeping both the tree and your loved ones safe. Invest in a tree stand that fits your tree’s size and has ample space for water to keep it hydrated.
Picking the Right Tree
Now comes the fun part — picking your perfect, fresh tree! When selecting your tree, avoid trunks that are peeling or overly dry.
Fresh trees have shiny, green needles, so run your hand along a branch; if the needles stay put and bounce back, you’ve got a winner. Brown or brittle needles indicate the tree is too dry to last the season.
Bringing Your Tree Home
Before placing your tree in the stand, make a fresh cut about half an inch off the bottom to allow better water absorption.
Keeping the tree hydrated is essential to making it last through the entire season. Fill your tree stand with water, and keep it full —especially during the first week, when trees can drink up to a gallon of water a day.
After the initial week, check the water level once a day to prevent the trunk from drying out.
Recycling Your Tree
When the holidays are over, recycling your tree is a great way to give it a second life while benefiting the environment. There are so many ways to recycle your trees, so plan now to save yourself hassle and stress later.
Many municipalities offer curbside pickup for trees after the holidays. Check your local guidelines to see if they’ll collect your tree for recycling into mulch or compost.
Some areas have designated drop-off sites where trees are chipped into mulch for parks or public spaces.
If you have a garden, you can chip the tree yourself for mulch or use the branches to insulate flower beds during the winter.
You can also get creative! Trees can be repurposed for wildlife preservation. A friend of mine submerges trees to create fish habitats—though I’m no fish expert, it’s amazing how many ways trees can still have a purpose after the holidays.
You can also reach out to local conservation organizations to see if they accept donated trees.
By recycling your tree, you help reduce waste and contribute to a healthier environment. From providing mulch for gardens to supporting wildlife, your tree can continue spreading joy long after the holiday season.