As the holiday season concludes, New Yorkers are now able to dispose of their Christmas trees more efficiently than ever. The city’s curbside composting program has expanded, allowing residents to place their real Christmas trees and holiday wreaths at the curb without waiting for designated collection days. This initiative, as outlined by the NYC Department of Sanitation, supports both recycling and composting efforts.
Residents can set their trees and wreaths out on their designated composting and recycling days, alongside other compostable materials such as food scraps and yard waste. It is crucial for residents to remove all decorations, including ornaments and stands, prior to collection. Additionally, trees should not be wrapped in plastic bags, as this can hinder the composting process. Once collected, the trees are chipped, combined with leaves, and transformed into compost or renewable energy for the city.
For those looking to dispose of artificial trees, the recommended method involves removing the metal base and trunk. These parts can then be recycled separately with other metals.
Participate in Mulchfest for Eco-Friendly Recycling
Another option for tree disposal is the annual Mulchfest, organized by NYC Parks. This year, Mulchfest will take place between December 26, 2025, and January 11, 2026. New Yorkers are encouraged to bring their trees to designated Mulchfest locations across the city, where they will be turned into wood chips that nourish other trees and contribute to a greener urban environment.
Residents participating in Mulchfest on “Chipping Weekend,” scheduled for January 10 and January 11, will have the opportunity to take home a bag of mulch. This mulch can be used for personal gardens or to create a winter bed for street trees.
According to NYC Parks, more than 52,500 trees were recycled during the previous year’s Mulchfest, highlighting the program’s success in promoting environmental sustainability.
For those interested in finding a Mulchfest location nearby, information is readily available on the NYC Parks website. By participating in these initiatives, New Yorkers can contribute to the city’s recycling efforts while ensuring their holiday trees are disposed of responsibly.
