Support Us Button Widget

Recycling your Christmas tree in Charleston

When the holidays are over, you still have to deal with the Christmas tree in the corner. Here are a few ways to dispose of dead trees around Charleston.

Screenshot 2023-01-04 at 2.03.51 PM.png

The tree downtown Charleston probably won’t fit in a yard waste bin.

Table of Contents

Sure, the holidays are all fun and games — but if you celebrate Christmas, you know that sooner or later you have to deal with that “Night of the Living Dead” tree in the corner. That doesn’t mean it’s dumpster-bound. Instead, we have some tips on how to put an old tree to good use.

Curbside pickup

Some municipalities under Charleston County will recycle your tree for you: all you have to do is bring it out to the curb for your usual pickup day. To make sure it gets properly recycled, you’ll need to remove the tinsel, garland, tree stand + ornaments before bringing it out.

Drop-off recycling

Maybe you just can’t wait for curbside pickup. Drop the tree off yourself at Charleston County’s McGill Bees Ferry Compost Facility or any staffed center — excluding the Signal Point Road location. Be sure to properly secure the tree to your car if you opt for this route. Pro tip: Don’t forget Charleston County Proof of Residency — it’s required.

Natural feeders

Give back to Mother Nature by making a natural bird feeder. Get creative with edible ornaments (think: orange-apple garlands and peanut butter pine cones), then set the tree out for birds to eat + take shelter. If your property includes a pond or lake, you can toss in the tree to make a natural reef, giving local fish a home.

Make your own mulch

When you take a tree to a recycling center, they turn it into mulch anyway. So, why not use it for your own yard + spring garden? Ideally, you could shred the tree (for example, Home Depot has mulchers for rent), but usually, by the time the holidays are over, the needles will be falling off. You can spread them in garden beds or over the lawn.

More from CHStoday
We’re exploring the ways you can help support adoptable pets at Charleston Animal Society even if you are unable to adopt.
It’s time to make winter memories at these festive rinks.
City Editors Erika and Callie ventured down to the perfect coastal escape for a treatment and an afternoon of relaxation at The Dunlin Aster.
We’ve rounded up a list of local spots open on Christmas that will serve up your holiday meals.
MINDZERO will offer contrast therapy and free sessions to celebrate grand opening.
CHStoday readers shared which local restaurants + meals they miss the most — and we think you’ll agree.
The legacy of Harold’s Cabin lives on with the opening of Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery, a new Congress Street neighborhood-focused market and restaurant.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Charleston?
The Italian Boy After Dark is an intimate, seasonal multi-course tasting menu at The PAss offering a complimentary cocktail.
Check out some of the coolest, most unique Airbnb and Vrbo rentals around Charleston, South Carolina and plan for your next adventure or staycation.