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The Christmas Tree

One of the most universal symbols of Christmas is the Christmas tree, which Americans have been decorating and enjoying since German mercenaries introduced us to the tradition during the Revolutionary War. But you don’t have to cut one down to enjoy the fresh smell of pine and the joy of decorating those bountiful branches.

No, that doesn’t mean buying an artificial tree. How about the opposite – a living tree?

Just like the one outside the White House, living trees can be found (albeit not quite as tall!) in many homes throughout the country at this time of year. And one of the best things about them is that you can use the same tree over and over again – and then plant it in your yard as a permanent reminder of those cherished Christmases past.

A balled and burlapped tree can be used for four to seven years, depending upon how fast it grows, before it needs to be planted. Just keep the soil in the container moist, and transfer the tree to a protected area in your yard so it can readjust to the outdoors after spending about a week inside your home. You can buy and plant a tree each year, or buy one and reuse it for several years before making it a permanent part of your yard or garden.

If you prefer the cut variety, don’t feel too guilty about a tree coming down to brighten up your holidays. It takes a Christmas tree up to 16 years to grow, and during that time it is absorbing carbon dioxide and giving off fresh oxygen. What’s more, for every tree that comes down during the holidays, another one or two are planted to replace it. The trees also provide habitat for wildlife, stabilize soil, protect water supplies and provide scenery.

If you want to know more about how planting your Christmas tree saves energy and helps the environment, please visit www.amfor.org.

To read more about this and other environmental health issues, go to: www.environmentalhealthnews.org, www.ourstolenfuture.org, or www.healthandenvironment.org