An Idea for Recycling Christmas Trees

Are you planning on getting a live tree for Christmas this year? Can't go through the season without that great nostalgic smell? Family tradition to trek out and find the perfect tree, cut it down, and haul it home? I too think that there is nothing that conveys holiday cheer like a real, live, aromatic tree in the corner.

My question for you is what do you do with the tree when everything is done? Take it and have it recycled? That's good. Throw it out in the woods behind your house? Ok, as long as it's your land. Something less "legal" or "green?"

I agree that you should do something with your tree that is lawful and helps the Earth. I have only been given an idea that I know is much better for the environment than any of the ideas above. Way better!

So I was at my grandmother in-laws trick-or-treating for Halloween this year and we started talking about Christmas. She showed me a tree growing in her yard that was the first Christmas tree they had in that house. Instead of buying a precut tree she got one with the roots still attached and planted it after the holidays. Let me tell that tree has to be over thirty feet tall today. It was the tallest tree in the yard!

I propose that everyone buys an uncut live tree this year. Think of what that would do to lower emissions from all those chainsaws cutting, vehicles transporting, and grinders mulching millions of trees. Not to mention that when planted those millions of trees are going to inhale carbon dioxide and exhale clean oxygen. And that is just one year. Imagine what it would do over the course of a decade.

Not all of the advantages go to the environment. You get some added benefits too. Live trees are more fire resistant. With proper watering the tree will stay green and not drop its needles. A live tree can drink a gallon of water in a day so you will need a large pot or bucket to keep it in. I bet it is much easier to stand a tree in a bucket then it is to get a cut tree balanced in those wobbly stands.

You also get to pick the perfect place in your yard to plant your memory. When picking a place to plant your tree, remember that it will grow very tall so avoid growing obstacles like buildings and power lines. Also think about the fact that you will be adding a tree a year and plan accordingly. (Your tree will also need good watering for the next year or so once planted.)

Uncut trees will be available at your local plant nurseries. Look online or check out the phone book to find someone close by. Some of the tree farms out there that let you come in and cut one down may sell uncut trees also. Make sure when you buy your tree you ask about transplanting tips for your area. It might be a good idea to go ahead and dig your hole when you get your tree so that the ground won't be frozen later.

If you have an apartment or rent a house where you can't plant a tree...don't worry! All you need to do is think of someone you know that could plant a tree. A family member or neighbor would love a new tree. Your church or local school will probably take it. I am sure you can find someone who will take it off your hands.

So start a new tradition this year! One that spreads holiday cheer, is great for the environment, and will become a living memory to be cherished forever.