How to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree Correctly

Find out how to correctly dispose of your Christmas tree in Salisbury, including recycling, council collections, and eco-friendly disposal tips.

Once the festive season comes to an end, many households are left wondering what to do with their Christmas tree. Disposing of it correctly is important for the environment and helps keep Salisbury clean and tidy. Whether you’ve had a real or artificial tree, here are the best ways to deal with it responsibly.

Real Christmas Trees: Eco-Friendly Disposal Options

If you had a real Christmas tree, you’re in luck — they’re fully recyclable.

1. Council Christmas Tree Collections
Wiltshire Council usually offers a dedicated Christmas tree collection service in early January. Trees should be placed at the edge of your property on the specified collection day, free of decorations, tinsel, lights, pots, and stands. Keep an eye on local council announcements for exact dates.

2. Take It to a Recycling Centre
Real Christmas trees can be taken to local household recycling centres. They are typically shredded and turned into mulch or compost, giving your tree a second life.

3. Compost or Reuse at Home
If you have a garden, you can cut the tree into smaller branches and use them as:

• Garden mulch

• Wildlife shelter

• Frost protection for plants

Just be sure to remove all decorations and any non-natural materials first.

Artificial Christmas Trees: What to Do

Artificial trees can’t be recycled in the same way as real ones, but there are still responsible options.

1. Reuse or Store for Next Year
If your tree is still in good condition, packing it away for next Christmas is the most environmentally friendly choice.

2. Donate It
Charities, schools, community centres, or local families may appreciate a reusable tree. Donating keeps it out of landfill and helps others.

3. Dispose as General Waste (Last Resort)
If the tree is broken or unusable, it should be disposed of as general waste. Some recycling centres may accept parts of artificial trees, so it’s worth checking before throwing it away.

What Not to Do

• ❌ Don’t dump trees in parks, woods, or countryside areas

• ❌ Don’t burn trees in fireplaces or open fires

• ❌ Don’t put real trees in regular household waste bins unless advised

Improper disposal can harm wildlife and lead to fines.

A Greener Start to the New Year

Disposing of your Christmas tree properly is a small but meaningful way to start the new year responsibly. By recycling, reusing, or donating, Salisbury residents can help reduce waste and protect the local environment.

For the latest local updates, council collection dates, and community news, keep checking salisburypost.co.uk.