As we dismantle the holiday displays, we try to be mindful of the impact that all of our actions have on the health of the planet. Holiday trees are hauled to the chipper to make mulch for woodland trails. Poinsettias that still look fresh are sold or donated. Those that are past their prime are recycled into compost. Even the wreaths and kissing balls are carefully dismantled into their components. Greenery goes into the compost or is piled around perennials as mulch. Ornaments and re-usable parts are packed away for next year.

See the list on the Garden’s website for holiday tree recycling information. If your municipality does not collect trees, consider these alternatives: Clip off boughs to place over tender garden plants as winter protection. Chip or shred it for mulch and compost or to cover a dirt path. Smaller dry branches make good kindling, but don’t burn a whole fresh tree in the fireplace – it will produce too much smoke and creosote. Wood from evergreens needs to season for a year before it is safe to burn. Do you have other tips for post-holiday greening? We’d love to hear them.
 

 Posted by Ann McCulloh