Let's face it, the holidays are not exactly the most earth-friendly time of the year. One of the more popular dilemmas for eco-conscious shoppers during the holidays is the decision to use a real or fake tree. Many argue that fake trees are re-used every year and therefore produce less waste. But consumer beware! Fake trees are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or more commonly known as vinyl. This form of non-renewable petroleum derived plastic tops the list of environmental offenders. As if that isn't enough, carcinogens are generated during production. Most fake trees contain lead and other additives that can potentially shed dust that can be extremely harmful if inhaled or consumed. And you thought The Grinch was scary!It would seem then that real trees are the lesser of two evils. But keep in mind, real trees are a farmed agricultural product. This means they require the use of pesticides and other applications that may in essence end up leaching into our waterways. They also pose as a rather large waste issue if not disposed or composted properly. If you can find an organic tree farm, you're ahead of the game. If not, just make sure your tree doesn't end up in a landfill after the holidays.
The most eco-friendly option for holiday trees is to buy a live one from a local grower with it's roots intact. After the holidays just replant in your yard. It's a holiday gift that keeps on giving. Live trees do require a little extra attention and care but the rewards make it all worth-wile. Here are a few steps to keep in mind when buying a live tree:
1. Root balls are delicate but are often very heavy. Be sure not to drop or damage the roots
2. Balled and burlapped trees should not be carried by their stems. Trees should be picked up by the root ball or the burlapped root ball can be rolled along the ground
3. Trees must be acclimated before being brought indoors otherwise they will break winter dormancy
4. Make sure trees are indoors for a maximum of 10 days and positioned in a cool location away from direct sunlight, fireplaces, etc.
5. Keep the root ball moist
6. Recondition trees before planting outdoors in the same way as when it was brought indoors
7. If the ground is frozen and the tree cannot be planted right away, store the tree in a sheltered area and heavily mulch the root ball – and don't forget to water
8. When planting, the hole should be dug at a depth of the root ball and 1.5-2 times the diameter
9. Voila! Look for the tree to break dormancy in the spring
– Happy Holidays and Enjoy!
Want to really do your part? Go native!
Did you know that native plants are the historical foundation of our landscape and provide food, shelter and habitat for other species? Native plants preserve biodiversity and provide the natural source for many products. They are also naturally acclimated and require little to no energy from irrigation or fertilizer to survive and thrive. Shop smart this holiday season and chose native plants.
Megan DiPerri is a graduate of the University of Maine where she obtained a B.S. in Landscape Horticulture with a focus in business and design. A true plant nerd at heart and secret tree-hugger by night, Megan is dedicated and passionate about the environment. She is always looking to educate others on how going “green” is not only beneficial to the world around us, it’s the new wave of the future.
Her Green Living insights, "Sage Garden," will be featured regularly in future issues of Aetherial Living.
If you enjoy this article, or would like to know more about Megan, please drop her a comment at megan@aetheriaspa.com
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