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Sustainable ways to recycle your tree in January

Give your Christmas tree a second life with our favourite recycling and repurposing ideas for Oxfordshire households.

Published 29 Dec 2024 4 min read
Snow-dusted trees stacked for recycling at the farm

Once the decorations are packed away, your tree can still bring value to your garden and community. Here are five easy options that keep waste to a minimum.

1. Return to the farm

We chip and compost returned trees for use on the fields. Drop-offs are welcome during the first two weekends of January.

2. Council collection schemes

South Oxfordshire District Council runs free kerbside collections. Remove all decorations and place your tree beside your green bin.

3. Garden mulch

Strip branches and lay them around flower beds to protect soil. The trunk can be cut into sections for wildlife habitats or borders.

4. Bird shelters

Secure the tree in your garden to provide shelter for birds during cold snaps. Add fat balls to encourage visits.

5. Creative crafts

Slice the trunk into discs for coasters or ornaments, or use smaller branches for fire starters once fully dried.

Looking for more ideas?

Explore the rest of our guides for styling tips, tree care, and farm updates.