By T. J. BANKS
Christmas trees are major players in the holiday festivities and have been since 1848, when Queen Victoria’s Prince Albert brought the tradition over from Germany and had one put up in Windsor Castle. In this age of climate change, however, the major question in many people’s minds is not “When do we go get the tree?” but “What is the most eco-friendly way of dealing with the whole tree issue?” Here are some possibilities:
Go with potted trees. These you can find at organic nurseries and some tree farms. “Choose a tree that’s right for your climate, and the soil and light conditions where you will be planting it,” advises Green America. (Note: ask the nursery or tree-farm folks for suggestions.) Keep the tree watered – young trees like their water – and use smaller lights with LED bulbs so that it doesn’t get heat-damaged. Plant your tree in your yard as soon as weather is favorable, and it will become one of the warriors in the battle against global warming.
Be creative. Some inventive – and sustainable – alternatives to the traditional Christmas tree include: stacking books in the shape of a tree and hanging ornaments on the corners of the books; connecting fallen branches with ribbons or twine and hanging ornaments on said branches; or attaching ornaments to a decorative board that you then hang on your wall.
Roots and rentability. But a tree with roots that you can later plant in your yard. Or, depending on where you live, check around and see about renting a tree. The Living Christmas Tree Company and Rent Xmas Tree in California and Rent-A-Christmas in the New York City metro area) are three companies offering this service. Renting a live tree will cost you more, but you’ll be doing your part to ensure many more Christmases to come for your children and grandchildren.
Editor Note: Having purchased a live tree for many years and successfully planting them, I advise moving the tree ASAP after the holiday into a sheltered garage, barn, whatever where temperature is cooler until it’s time to plant. But don’t forget to water the tree.
