Already spotted a few Christmas trees lining the curbs around Fremont today? The post-holiday tree migration has begun!
The good news: Seattle Public Utilities is offering free composting for holiday trees and greens through Jan. 31. Simply set your tree out with your regular yard waste on collection day. No special scheduling needed, just your normal pickup. SPU will haul away up to two trees per cart, per collection, turning them into nutrient-rich compost.
For apartment and condo dwellers: You’re included too! Just place up to two trees next to your building’s food and yard waste cart on collection day. Same rules apply, no extra charge.
A few ground rules:
- Strip off all lights, ornaments, and tinsel
- Cut tall trees down to 4 feet
- Keep trunks under 4 inches in diameter
- No flocked or artificial trees (they don’t compost well, obviously)
Can’t wait for your collection day? You can drop off up to three trees for free at Seattle’s transfer stations (thankfully we have one conveniently located next to Fremont).
Your tree gave you weeks of holiday cheer; now give it a chance to nourish the earth.