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What to do with your Christmas tree, now that the holiday is over

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Dec. 25 has come and gone and if that tree in the corner is looking a little sad, don’t just toss it in the trash.

Here are some ideas on what you can do with “O Tannenbaum” when it’s time for the tree to go.

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Mulch

This Old House suggests using the pine needles as mulch as they decompose slowly, but dry quickly. They are good for ground-covering plants as they are free from moisture and mold.

Insulation for perennials

Cut the boughs off the tree and lay them over perennials to protect plants from snow and frost.

Animal habitat

The tree can be used for some small animals who have to seek shelter from the weather, according to Capital Gardens. The organization suggests putting the tree in a corner of a garden where it isn’t exposed and to secure it so it doesn’t get blown around.

Take it a step further by leaving it in the tree stand and placing outside, adding bird feeders or pinecones coated in peanut butter. You can also use popcorn strands, suet, or even fruit to feed the birds.

Fire pit starter

Use some of the dried-out branches for a quick fire starter for outdoor fire pits, This Old House suggests.

Garden borders

Get out the saw and cut the trunk into two-inch disks and use it as edging for gardens, walkways or flower beds.

Plant stakes

Take some of the thin branches and use them to support plants and seedlings.

Potpourri

Use some of the needles, small pieces of the tree stump, and mix with cranberries, cinnamon sticks and cloves to make your own homemade potpourri, Capital Gardens said. For instructions on how to make the mix, visit the group’s website.

Make a memento

Cut the trunk into disks, sand and then cover with a thin coat of polyurethane and use them as a coaster or trivet, This Old House suggests.

Or, as Capital Gardens said, make a candle holder to decorate your home.

Recycle it

Many communities offer tree recycling once the holidays are over. Check with either the community’s website where they can be dropped off, the Miami Herald reports, or look for information from your HOA or garbage service for dates when you can put the tree out for pickup.

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