‘Tis the season for figuring out what to do with your old Christmas tree.
Of note: It’s actually bad luck in some circles to take the tree down before Jan. 6, which is when the 12 days of Christmas officially end.
Regardless of when you decide to deconstruct your yuletide decorations, here are some options for what to do with them.
Turn your tree into mulch
Now through Jan. 26, you can bring your tree to one of 23 recycling centers throughout the Houston region.
- Trees must be bare and can’t be flocked, artificial or painted.
- The city of Houston will grind the trees down into mulch, which can later be purchased at Living Earth and other retailers.
Help save Surfside Beach
Your old tree can help shore up the dunes at Surfside Beach, about 60 miles south of the city.
- Drop off your bare tree at the main beach entrance off Texas 332.
- City officials and volunteers will move the trees to the dunes Jan. 20.
Recycle old holiday lights
The Houston Zoo accepts old, broken and otherwise unwanted holiday lights to divert them from landfills.
- Since 2015, the zoo has recycled more than 15 tons of holiday lights.
- Drop your lights off at the zoo’s main entrance now through Sunday.
The bottom line: Take the tree down. Embrace the new year. We believe in you.
