Estabrook's Garden Newsletter

Put Your Christmas Tree to Work!

Just because Christmas is over doesn't mean your tree can't still be put to good use

A funny thing happens the day after Christmas - suddenly the lights aren't nearly as bright, the songs not as merry, and your Christmas tree isn't quite as magical. Instead of putting your tree out by the curb for the garbage man this year, consider putting it to work around your home with these helpful tips:

In the Garden

Snowload and freezing are two of the biggest threats to your garden during the winter, and your Christmas tree can help protect your plants from both. Cut off the larger branches at the bottom of the tree and use them to shield your broadleaf evergreen shrubs while also protecting them from wild life, or use the smaller branches as mulch to protect your perennials.

For the Birds

Your old Christmas tree can also make the ideal feeder and haven for birds. Station the tree by your feeders as a landing place for smaller birds like chickadees and finches or place it in more of a secluded area with popcorn and cranberry garlands for a festive winter accent that will draw the most beautiful birds to your backyard.

Inside the Home

Bring the fresh scent of balsam indoors by sewing scrap pieces of fabric together and fill them with pine needles. These fragrant sachets can then be placed in drawers or closets to keep them smelling fresh all season long. Also, don't forget that dried out sprigs from your tree can be used in a home woodstove or fireplace as kindling.

Holiday Schedule

Thanks for visiting us this holiday season!

To celebrate the holidays with our family and friends, we'll be closing or having reduced hours of operation on the following days:

We'd like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you again in 2009!

Spring is only a few months away...