With 25 to 30 million Christmas trees sold each year, it remains one of the holiday season's favorite staples. The tradition of putting up these fragrant evergreens has a long history that has experienced several cultural evolutions. Here is a brief guide to how the Christmas tree came to be and how tree care services can help you make the most of yours through and after the holidays.

The History of the Christmas Tree

As far back as ancient times, cultures have been bringing plantlife inside to celebrate on the winter solstice. Ancient Egyptians are credited with being the first to put greenery inside their homes during the solstice to celebrate life triumphing over death, although they used green palm rushes. Other cultures such as the Romans and Celts adorned their dwellings with evergreens to celebrate the coming return of warmer days and fresh crops.

By the 16th century, Christmas trees became more widespread throughout Germany. Protestant monk and theologian Martin Luther is said to be the first to add lighted candles, as they reminded him of stars shining through the evergreen boughs. In the United States, German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania displayed the trees in their homes. 

There was some hesitancy about embracing this tradition in America because Puritan leaders believed that Christmas was a sacred event that should be observed with solemnity rather than festivities and decorations, including the Christmas tree. By the end of the 19th century, however, decorated Christmas trees were firmly ingrained as a way to celebrate the season. The seasonal tradition continues to this day, with countries around the world putting their unique homeland spins on the festive icon.

Making the Most of Your Tree After the Holidays

Christmas trees bring a great deal of joy to the holidays, but their usefulness doesn't need to end there. Consider mulching your tree to create a warm cover for garden beds. Composting the tree, especially its needles, will add nutrients to your compost pile that enhance the soil's PH, and the needles will help keep it from becoming too compacted. You can also protect your gardens and flower beds from winter's chill by placing cut branches on them. The insulative layer helps maintain even temperatures and protect plants from harsh freezes. 

Another way to recycle your tree is by burning it and spreading the ashes on your gardens. Evergreen ashes contain lime, potassium, and other nutrients that help plants grow and keep insects away. When burning trees, be sure the fire is completely extinguished and the ashes have cooled before putting them on your landscaping.

If you need help recycling your tree after the holidays, come to Carlos Tree Service in Anchorage, AK, for convenient and affordable Christmas tree recycling. Serving the area since 1993, these licensed, insured, and certified tree care specialists use top-quality equipment to break down trees into nourishing and protective mulch. Their professional services also include tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump removal. Visit the website for the complete lineup of tree care solutions, or call (907) 522-6049 when you're ready to recycle your Christmas tree.