Rather than put your natural Christmas tree on the curb for collection, put it in your garden as a bit of habitat for birds to help them survive the winter.

Our little feathered buddies take protection from cold and wind in evergreens. Your holiday tree, wreaths and garlands can provide that protection too. Just take the decorations and lights off and place the greenery (even if it has turned brown already) in your yard until spring. You can set the tree on its side and just pile up the other greenery anywhere in the yard.

Here is an article from the Cornell Lab’s All About Birds with more detail.

If you would like to dispose of your trees now instead:

• Guidance for Anne Arundel County residents
• Guidance for City of Annapolis residents

And, if you have unwanted or broken lights, Annapolis Green will accept them for recycling until January 15. Just drop them off in the marked bin on our porch at 92 Maryland Avenue.