Proper disposal of holiday greens in Cook County
Jan 05, 2026 10:30AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: Ruby Lalor on Unsplash.com
From the Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) - January 5, 2026
Holiday greenery and Christmas trees bring joy, but they can also hide dangerous pests. Diseases and invasive species can make their way into our landscapes on trees and boughs brought into Minnesota from other states.
From the Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) - January 5, 2026
Holiday greenery and Christmas trees bring joy, but they can also hide dangerous pests. Diseases and invasive species can make their way into our landscapes on trees and boughs brought into Minnesota from other states.
Here’s how to properly dispose of greenery and trees after the holiday season:
- Don’t toss trees and greenery into your backyard woods or residential compost pile, which can spread the invasive species or disease.
- Wreaths and other decorative greens can be disposed of in trash cans.
- For Cook County: If your city or county does not have an organized pick-up or drop-off, the last resort is to burn the greens. Always check fire danger conditions and burning restrictions before burning and follow local ordinances.
Pests of concern include elongate hemlock scale, a small insect established in the eastern United States, where many Fraser firs are grown. Damage caused by this invasive insect can cause the needles of hemlocks, firs, and spruces to yellow and prematurely drop. Also, boxwood blight, a fungal disease, and round leaf bittersweet, an invasive noxious weed, are sometimes found on wreaths and centerpieces and can endanger native trees.
Elongate hemlock scale. Photo provided
If you suspect your greenery or tree may be infested with an invasive insect or disease, contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Report a Pest line at 1-888-545-6684, [email protected], or through the online reporting form.
