North Carolina is the nation’s second largest producer of Christmas trees, and going green for the holidays with a real tree is the most environmentally friendly choice. But what to do with your tree after the ornaments have been taken down? Here are a couple options:
- Recycle: Many areas in the state have curbside pickup for the first two weeks in January. These trees are often turned into mulch or taken to local lakes and ponds where they serve as habitats for fish. Contact your local chamber of commerce for information on your specific area’s pickup sites.
- Replant: Balled-and-burlapped trees can actually be replanted. Dig a hole about twice the size of the root ball. Be sure to plan ahead and dig your spot before the holidays to avoid frozen ground. Leave room to prevent the tree from crowding other shrubs, and make sure the soil is well drained. After removing the burlap, lower the tree into the hole without damaging the roots. Cover the root ball with dirt and make a moat around the tree to fill with mulch and water.
For more tips on how to care for, recycle and replant your tree, visit ncchristmastrees.com.
