Did you know that the UK uses approximately 8 million real Christmas trees each year? Sadly, only 1 million of these are recycled or reused properly. The remaining 7 million are not disposed of properly, often ending up in landfills and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Let’s break that cycle! By following the steps in this blog you will learn how to dispose of a Christmas tree responsibly, reduce waste and ensure your tree has a sustainable second life.
What to do with your Christmas Tree after Christmas
If you’re unsure how to dispose of a Christmas tree after the festive season, don’t worry. Whether you have a cut, potted, or artificial tree, there are simple and eco-friendly ways to give it a new purpose and reduce its environmental impact. Here is what we would advise.
Recycle Cut Christmas Trees
If replanting isn’t an option, cut Christmas trees can still be put to good use and here's how.
1. Council Recycling Programs
Cut trees should be recycled, and most councils offer local collection and recycling services, details can usually be found on their website. Often, recycled trees are turned into compost to enrich parks or woodland areas.
Use the recycling locator to find your council's recycling scheme by entering your postcode.
2. Garden Waste Centres
Alternatively, you can drop your tree off at a garden waste collection point at your local tip.
Drop off your tree at a recycling centre for processing.
3. Nature Reserves
Some local nature reserves may also accept trees, as they are often used in coastal areas to help stabilise sand dunes, you can call ahead to check.
Replant your potted Christmas tree
If you chose a potted Christmas tree this year, replanting it in your garden ensures it thrives and becomes part of your landscape. Follow this step by step guide to learn how to achieve this properly.
A step-by-step guide to replanting your potted Christmas tree
1. Choose the right spot
Select a sunny area with well-draining soil. Avoid areas prone to water logging.
2. Dig a Hole
Make the hole twice as wide and the same depth as the pot—around 30–40cm deep for most trees. This prevents roots from sitting too shallow or too deep.
3. Loosen the Roots
Gently remove the tree from its pot and loosen the root ball without damaging it.
4. Plant and Back fill
Place the tree in the hole and fill with the original soil, ensuring the root collar (where the trunk meets the roots) sits at ground level. Tamp the soil down lightly to secure it.
5. Water Well
Water immediately after planting and continue to water during dry spells, especially in the first year.
If you would like to learn even more information on replanting your Christmas tree after Christmas, read our blog guide on how to plant a Christmas tree.
Dispose of artificial trees
Artificial trees can’t be recycled, but you can donate them to schools, charities, or community groups. When buying a replacement, consider a potted tree for a greener choice.
Create Shelter for Wildlife
Wildlife in the garden during winter need shelter. By creating a habitat with stacked tree trunks, bundled twigs, and needle-covered branches , this can provide a cosy hideout for hedgehogs and other critters.
A step-by-step guide to creating shelter for wildlife
1. Gather Materials
Collect fallen branches, twigs, and tree trunks, ensuring they’re clean and chemical-free.
2. Create Hedgehog Shelter
Pile branches with needles in a sheltered corner to create a cosy spot for hedgehogs. Check underneath in spring for wildlife.
3. Build Log Stack
Cut tree trunks into short lengths and stack them with gaps for critters to shelter in. Keep the stack dry by raising it off the ground.
4. Bundle Twigs
Gather small twigs, tie them together with string, and hang them in trees for insects and small creatures.
5. Monitor
Check the shelter regularly and dismantle it in spring to avoid disturbing any wildlife.
Other ways to re-purpose your Christmas Tree
Instead of discarding your Christmas tree, you may want to consider these creative ways to re-purpose it
Garden Mulch
Pine needles are great for acid-loving plants like blueberries. If you have a shredder, shred the whole tree and let the mulch decompose before using it in your garden. If not, remove the branches and scatter the needles around your garden to nourish the soil.
Wooden Coasters
Another option you have is creating a wooden coaster as a way to re-purpose your Christmas tree. To achieve this, cut small rounds from the tree trunk to make coasters. Sand, stain, or paint them, then seal to prevent sap leakage.
Firewood
You could also consider giving the Christmas tree a new purpose by chopping it into firewood for your wood burner. The needles will create a delightful crackle as they burn and you can even use the wood for a cosy bonfire to ring in the new year.
Replanting, recycling, or re-purposing your Christmas tree is a small step toward a greener future. Whether you’re creating a wildlife haven or giving your tree a second life in your garden, or deciding to re-purpose your tree in other creative ways, you’re making a meaningful impact this festive season.
