Propagating money trees is easier than you might think, and it’s a cost-effective way to expand your collection.
15.12.2023 - 14:19 / gardenersworld.com
When the celebrations are over and decorations have been packed away, it’s time to think about how to reuse your cut Christmas tree, instead of sending it to landfill. From shredding it to make mulch to using it as a frame for climbing plants, there are many ways to put the wood and needles to good use.
Discover six ways to recycle your Christmas tree, below. Plus, find out what to do with your living, containerised (pot-grown) Christmas tree.
Looking for inspiration for fabulously festive plants for your home or to gift loved ones? We share our favourite Christmas plants.
Create woodchip mulchConvert your old Christmas tree into useful woodchip mulch by putting it through a shredder. Stack the chips at the back of a border for a few months to rot down before using them to mulch around trees and shrubs. If you don’t own a shredder, you can rent one, ask a neighbour, or contact your local gardening club. Find out which areas to mulch in your garden.
Make mulch from the needlesKeep the Christmas tree on the patio until the needles fall off, then collect the needles to use as a mulch for acid-loving plants such as blueberries. Discover acid-loving plants in our Plant Finder.
Use it as a frame for climbersPlant the bare tree in a garden border, then grow climbers such as sweet peas over it. You can also use twiggy branches as plant supports – keep them somewhere dry and use them in the summer. Take inspiration from these 10 scented climbers.
Create a wildlife shelterTrim twigs to short lengths, tie them in a bundle, then hang in a bush for bugs to hide in. Or, chop the trunk into pieces and stack to create a mini refuge for wildlife. Learn three ways to build a deadwood habitat.
Use as insulation for tender plantsChop
Propagating money trees is easier than you might think, and it’s a cost-effective way to expand your collection.
Most councils will recycle your Christmas tree, but little is as sad, in those grey days post-Christmas, than the sight of enormous piles of discarded trees at drop-off points, waiting to be collected. Councils normally shred them and use the chippings as mulches in parks or woodland areas, so there’s nothing to stop you doing the same at home.
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In the enchanting realm of Christmas decorations, the first step is to decide on a theme that reflects your unique style. Whether you're drawn to traditional reds and greens or contemporary metallics, your theme sets the stage for a cohesive and visually stunning display. Imagine your Christmas tree adorned with baubles, ribbons, and ornaments all harmonizing in a symphony of festive hues. Take a moment to brainstorm and let your creativity flow; perhaps a winter wonderland with snowflakes and glittering whites, or a rustic theme featuring natural elements like pinecones and burlap. Your chosen theme will infuse your space with the warmth and joy of the season.
From when I was a child, I’ve always loved gussying up the table for Christmas. Lots of candles are a must, in order to give that necessary festive twinkle, ideally placed at different heights (nightlights, low candlesticks, tall candelabras), to really make it sparkle. Nice table linen and glassware are important too. But the table arrangements really wave the magic Christmas wand, providing that all-important bit of theatre to memorably mark this special day of the year.
There’s a Christmas tree hack working its way through TikTok and promising to make your tree grow healthier and happier but, as is the case with many rumors online, there's not much truth to it.