With the 2012 Christmas Holiday behind us, some are left wondering how to dispose of their live Christmas tree. Iowa State University Extension has advice on how to clean up your tree after the Holiday.

Several options exist for recycling trees. After all ornaments, lights, tinsel and other accessories are removed, trees can be placed in your yard or garden giving shelter to birds and other wildlife. You can supply the animals with food by hanging fruit, seed cakes or suet bags from the trees branches.

The trees also can be turned into mulch for landscaping and gardens in the winter by pruning the trees branches and placing the boughs over perenials, or chipping the tree and using the finished materials around trees, shrubs and flower beds.

If you have additional questions about Christmas Tree disposal you can reach the extension office by calling 515-294-3108.