Another Use for the Christmas Tree

Kathy Dowling, a “Smart Gardening Tips” reader, sent this note in response to the article “Ways to Recycle a Christmas Tree.”

After Christmas, I cut up my Christmas tree and lay the branches over my roses and other perennials, sometimes anchoring them with rocks if necessary. I like to wait until after Christmas to be sure that the ground is frozen, so the critters don't move in and chew on my plants. The pine branches act as a cushion for snow that falls off the roof or trees above, and protect the plants below. They also protect them from ice storms. In the spring, usually the needles have fallen off and add to my mulch, and I just remove the branches.—Kathy Dowling

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