Ever consider a zero waste alternative to bringing home a cut tree? We have ideas that lean in a more sustainable direction while keeping the spirit of the season alive while being kind to the planet too!
Here are some zero waste alternatives to consider this season:
Norfolk Pine Tree
Although technically not a pine, this tropical tree can reach an impressive 200 feet when grown in climates that mimic its native habitat, the island of Norfolk in the South Pacific. When grown outdoors in zones 10 and 11 the Norfolk can flourish to great heights and thankfully, for the rest of us, it makes a beautiful houseplant too!
Norfolk pine is an easy-going houseplant when kept in a brightly lit space in slightly acidic, well draining soil. They are especially receptive to our plant care tonics too–we've seen them absolutely thrive with monthly doses of Sacred Soil Tonic and as humidity lovers, they happily soak up frequently misting of Sacred Leaf Tonic.
An added bonus to bringing a Norfolk home this holiday? They are know to represent peace and harmony–something we could all need this time of year!
Bring Home a Potted Herb Bush or Topiary
These can grow indoors, filling your space with greenery and providing fresh flavors for all your holiday meals! When winter is over, you can move them outside to decorate your front porch or garden, extending their usefulness and keeping the festive spirit alive long after the holidays.
Potted Rosemary, Lavender or Bay Tree
- Perfect for smaller homes and tight spaces
- Useful in recipes, crafts and built in aromatherapy year-round
- All these herbs are fantastic when dried for burning and cleansing.
Check out our 6 Herbs for Burning blog post for more ideas!
Conifer Options for Living Potted Trees
Bringing home a potted tree means it can eventually become part of your outdoor decor or landscape after the holidays. It can be kept potted and well-watered, or planted in early spring.
Good choices for a similar traditional shape, scent, availability, and care include:
- Dwarf Alberta Spruce
- Cypress (both Blue and Lemon are good options)
- Juniper
- Blue Cone Fir
Non-Tree Alternatives for Your Holiday Tree
- Hang branches or driftwood horizontally run a tree shape on the wall and decorate. Simply gather different-sized pieces of wood, starting with the shortest piece and ending with the longest, string branches together horizontally leaving a space between for hang ornaments
- Trim a large bough from outdoors and keep in a sturdy vase of water to then decorate and string lights.
- Hang garland on the wall in the shape of a tree, string lights and decorate using double-sided sticky tape or push pins.
- Paint a window tree with non-toxic washable paint
We hope this inspires new ways to bring warmth and good cheer to your holidays! 🌟
Warmly, Karina and Team SE