Some homes might keep the Christmas tree up for a few more days. But others will want to remove the source of dead pine needles, and pollen as soon as possible.
Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources regularly fields questions about what to do with the Christmas tree after the holidays end. Some even ask if an old tree may create an aquatic habitat in lakes and rivers. While hardwoods do create great habitats for fish in Michigan. Christmas trees tend to come from softwood species and decompose in water fairly quickly.
The Michigan DNR suggests to instead place a natural Christmas tree in the woods or use it to start a brush pile in the backyard. Old Christmas trees offer nutrients and habitat-making materials to animals still active in the winter. The state agency also suggests cutting the tree into smaller pieces or mulching it to use with landscaping plans in the spring. Other uses for a Christmas tree include use on the farm or inquiring about tree recycling with your municipality.
The City of Houghton residents may contact the city offices to request a tree pick-up. Find more Christmas tree recycling information here.
