Many of us wonder what to do with Christmas trees after the holidays… what some might not know is that there are ways to help recycle your trees and plants which helps the environment.

Iowa State Extension horticulturists recommend placing the tree in the yard or garden for use by birds or other wildlife. The branches help provide shelter from strong winds and cold. You can also hang fruit slices, seed cakes or strings of berries from them to supply the birds and animals with food.

Another option is pruning off the tree’s branches and placing them over perennials as a winter mulch.

It is important to remember not to burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove.  Dry evergreen branches explode when burned and could cause a fire.