Recycling Options

So you've made a great decision to go real.

You ventured out and found your perfect tree, and for the last few weeks, you’ve enjoyed its natural beauty as the holiday focal point in your home. But now Christmas is over. The presents have been opened and the decorations put away, and your perfect tree needs to go. Now what?

Curbside Pickup

Most municipalities provide curbside pickup and recycling services beginning in January. Check your county’s waste collection schedule for more information.

DivertNS Sorting Guide

Reuse Your Tree

You don’t have to leave your Christmas tree curbside – it still has many uses after the holidays are over! Consider the following options:

    • Winter bird feeder –  place it in the garden or back yard and trim with orange slices, bread, cranberries, bird seed and suet. Trim off the lower branches so they don’t provide a hiding place for cats or other predators.
    • Garden mulch – the branches can be removed and used as winter protection in the garden. The trunk can be chopped or chipped too.
    • Garden ornamental – balled and potted trees can be planted in the yard at a later date for added years of enjoyment. Consult your local nursery or garden centre for transplant instructions.
    • Pond refuge – sunk into fish ponds, trees make excellent refuge and feeding areas.
    • Potpourri – branch tips and needles provide aromatic stuffing for sachets.
    • Community programs – check your newspaper to see if your community offers programs beyond curbside pickup and recycling. Many communities conduct chipping programs. Some coastal communities use trees at nearby beaches to reduce sand and soil erosion.


      Source: Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources

Get Creative!

Feeling inspired? Why not fabricate something useful from your tree? Walking sticks, longbows, coat racks, vine poles and outdoor artwork are all creative ways to make use of your real tree after Christmas.