Christmas brings a delightful chill in the air, twinkling tights, and gifts wrapped in love. But what happens once the festivities wrap up? When it’s time to return to our regular routines and tackle that New Year resolution list? Among the many things to think about is deciding what to do with your Christmas tree.


Why January 6th Matters

January 6th, traditionally regarded as the Twelfth Night, marks the official end of Christmas. Superstitions prevail about it being unlucky to leave up the tree beyond this date. Because of this, many people reluctantly start the process of dismantling their beautifully decorated Christmas trees. However, there’s a silver lining for those with a wood-burning stove!


Repurpose that Christmas Tree Base

While the decorated part of the tree has given its best during the festive period, its base holds a hidden treasure. A wooden Christmas tree base – typically weighing around 3–4 kilos – is an ideal fuel for your wood-burning stove. Burning the base can keep your home warm and cosy, making those chilly January nights more bearable.

So, before you consider storing your Christmas tree base in your garage or tossing it into the recycling bin, remember its potential. Plus, if you notice your neighbours parting with their trees, consider asking them if you could use the base. This way, you’re not just recycling but also making the most of what’s available.


A Note of Caution

It might be tempting to just toss the entire tree into the stove, especially on those extra cold days. However, this isn’t always the best idea. Pine and spruce, the common choices for Christmas trees, are considered low-grade softwoods. Burning them, especially unseasoned, can lead to black deposits forming on your stove’s glass. It’s an additional cleaning chore nobody wants.

For those keen on optimising their wood-burning experience, resources are available to guide you. Check out our guide to burning softwood here to make the most of using your Christmas tree base as fuel.


Other Eco-Friendly Disposal Methods

If you have a gas or electric stove, don’t worry – there are other sustainable ways to part with your Christmas tree. Recycling the tree through local authorities is one option. Another creative and eco-friendly way is to repurpose it as a bird feeder, like this one from Rebecca’s Bird Garden Blog. By swapping out baubles with bird food, you can place the tree in your garden, where it provides food for the birds and becomes a natural attraction.


The Environmental Impact of Christmas Trees

Every year, millions of Christmas trees grace households around the world. Understanding the environmental footprint of these trees can motivate us to seek greener alternatives or to recycle effectively.

Natural Trees vs. Artificial Trees

When it comes to the environment, there’s a longstanding debate on whether natural trees or artificial trees are the better choice.

  • Natural trees: Grown on farms, they act as carbon sinks during their growth, absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen. However, if they end up in landfills, they decompose and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. On the upside, real trees can be mulched or composted, returning their nutrients to the earth.
  • Artificial trees: Made primarily from PVC and metals, these trees are non-biodegradable. While they can be reused year after year, they eventually end up as waste that remains in landfills for centuries. Production of artificial Christmas trees also involves energy-intensive processes.

A Toast to a Sustainable New Year

No matter your route, the emphasis is on making the most of what you have, recycling, and reducing waste. As we bid goodbye to the festive season and welcome the promises of a new year, let’s pledge to adopt sustainable practices. Wishing you warmth, prosperity, and a Happy New Year!