Christmas trees are a great way to infuse your home with cheer during the holiday season. But farming real trees just to cut them down isn’t ideal—and producing a bunch of brand new plastic trees is even worse.

So how can you make sure you’re celebrating in the most sustainable way possible? Here are a few options.

1. Rent a living tree

If Christmas just won’t be the same to you without that lovely pine-y tree smell, one of the most sustainable options is renting a living potted tree for your home! Search for local companies that will deliver a tree and pick it up at the end of the season, so the plants can be returned to the nursery and maintained for years to come.

2. Get a real tree and then mulch it

If you do opt for a real cut tree, one way to make it a little more sustainable is to make sure it gets transformed into mulch after the season is over. If you live in the City of LA, the Sanitation Department will even do this for you—you can drop it off at a mulching facility, cut the tree up and put it in your green bin, or leave it next to the green bin on your regular collection day. Just make sure you remove all tinsel and decor before you put it out!

3. Thrift a fake tree

Any newly produced plastic is bad news for our ecosystem.
But if you prefer the ease of a fake tree that will last you for years to come, consider thrifting one! Thrift stores fill up with holiday decorations this time of year—and the best part is, it will be easier on your pocketbook too!

4. Decorate an outdoor tree

There are plenty of beautiful trees already growing around LA. If you’re lucky enough to have one in your yard, why not skip the indoor tree altogether? Deck out your outdoor tree with wildlife-friendly decorations, like ornaments made from fresh or dried fruit, birdseed, popcorn, or peanuts. This is a great activity to do with your family or friends and is a beautiful holiday gift for the birds and squirrels. Just avoid synthetic decorations like tinsel or garland!

5. Gift a Tree Dedication Card

If having a tree in your home isn’t your thing—or you simply want to see more trees thriving year-round in your community—consider gifting one of TreePeople’s Tree Dedication Cards this holiday season. Each meaningful contribution made through our Tree Dedication Program plays a vital role in supporting our efforts to plant trees, restore ecosystems, and green communities throughout Southern California.