Christmas Day has come and gone, and soon it will time to say goodbye to the decorations, lights, and, of course, the Christmas tree.
While it may be tempting to simply toss the tree out with the rest of the holiday trash, it is important to properly dispose of it for the sake of safety, the environment, and aesthetics. Let’s explore the different options for disposing of a Christmas tree in Delaware County. From recycling to composting, there are several ways to give your tree a new life after the holiday season. So before you say farewell to your holiday centerpiece, read on to learn more about the importance of proper Christmas tree disposal.
It is important to properly dispose of a Christmas tree for a number of reasons:
- Safety: A dry, neglected Christmas tree can become a fire hazard, especially if it is left near a heat source or placed in an area that is prone to fires.
- Environmental impact: Christmas trees are a renewable resource, and they can be recycled and repurposed after the holiday season. Proper disposal of Christmas trees helps to reduce waste and preserve natural resources.
- Aesthetics: An old, dried out Christmas tree can be an eyesore, and disposing of it properly helps to keep neighborhoods looking clean and tidy.
There are several options for properly disposing of a Christmas tree, including recycling it through a local program, using it as mulch in the garden, or composting it. It is important to follow local guidelines for disposal to ensure that the tree is properly disposed of and does not become a hazard or an environmental issue.
It is generally not recommended to put a Christmas tree in a fireplace because it can be a fire hazard. Christmas trees are often dry and can easily catch fire if they come into contact with a heat source. Additionally, the needles and branches of the tree can clog the chimney and create a dangerous blockage.
City of Delaware
Christmas tree and holiday greens can be placed curbside Tuesday, January 3 through Friday, February 3. Any remaining yard waste will be picked up at this time, as well. The city asks that you do not place trees in plastic bags at curbside.
Powell
According to the City of Powell, Rumpke will be collecting Christmas trees for disposal during regularly scheduled trash pick-up for residents. Trees more than four feet tall must be cut in half, and all pieces of the tree must then be tied together for collection. Trees should not be placed in plastic bags and should be free from all decorations. Trees should be placed by the curb with regular trash for collection.
Genoa Township
Genoa Township residents can drop trees off at the maintenance facility behind the fire station at 7049 Big Walnut Rd. on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The trees will be chipped into mulch for use at township parks.
Recycling drop off
You can drop your tree off for recycling at Price Farms Organics at 4838 Warrensburg Road in Delaware. All ornaments should be removed prior to recycling. Price Farms is also collecting string lights for recycling.
Winter hours at Price Farms Organics are Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm, Sat 9am-1pm.
Mulching and composting
If you have the ability to break the tree down into wood chips, composting is a great way to dispose of your tree. Experts recommend removing the needles first, as the waxy coating on the needles can slow the composting process. Instead, needles can be used as mulch.