The holidays are coming to a close. Across Longmont, holiday lights are coming down and the ornaments are coming off of the tree. But where does the tree go?
The National Christmas Tree Association reports that more than 30 million trees are sold in the U.S. each year. Most of those trees are thrown in a landfill, while new trees are planted for the next holiday season.
To reduce the amount of trees that end up in landfills, the city of Longmont is providing residents with four tree drop-off locations. The bins will be located at Roosevelt, Garden Acres, Kanemoto and Centennial parks from Dec. 26 to Jan. 7.
The Longmont Recycling Center also takes trees and turns them into mulch for residents. Along with trees, the center recycles holiday string lights, cardboard and Styrofoam blocks.
If you’re looking to take the repurposing of your tree into your own hands, there’s an endless list of alternative possibilities. Christmas trees can be turned into composting, bird feeders or fragrance sacks around the home.
Compost
To compost, cut your tree branches and pine needles into small pieces, no larger than a thumb. Place them into a composting bin and wait.
Bird Feeder
Cover the branches of your tree with butter and bird seeds. Cut them into your desired shape and size, and hang them around your backyard. Birds will be visiting in no time!
Fragrance Sacks
Add a bit of green to your home and place pine needles in small cloth bags. Place them in the corners of your home and smell a wintery pine scent all year long.
Replant
Although it takes an abundance of nurturing, replanting your tree is always an option. If done correctly, you’ll be able to use the same tree next year!
The possibilities are endless when it comes to repurposing a tree. What will you do with yours?
