MODESTO - City of Modesto officials said residents can recycle their Christmas trees for free in a variety of ways.

If you have an untreated tree, meaning no flocking, paint or fireproffing, place it in your green organic waste container. Cut the untreated tree into small sections. The lid of the green waste container must close completely in order for it to be picked up.

For residents who don't have an organic waste container, you can place an untreated Christmas tree in the street or alley with other yard trimmings for collection. All ornaments, tinsel, nails, stands, support rods and plastic bags must be removed. The tree should be cut into 6-foot sections or smaller.

City waste workers will begin collection on the first Monday in January.

If you have a treated tree, meaning flocked, painted and/or fireproofed, it cannot be recycled.