The great Christmas tree debate is almost here: Is real or fake better for the environment? While artificial trees can be reused year after year, they are not made to last indefinitely and eventually have to be disposed of. And it's impossible to recycle a fake tree. A real evergreen tree, cut down, is a far better choice for many reasons: It's biodegradable, it was grown on land that grew trees and provided habitat while helping remove CO2 emissions from the air, and -- this is personal -- they smell great, too. For the absolute greenest choice, go with a living tree that can be planted in the yard in the spring.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

We're used to storing vegetables in the refrigerator to help them stay crisp and fresh longer. But there's one vegetable you should never store in the fridge: potatoes. Turns out the cool temps actually turn the natural starches into sugar, which breaks down the potato and affects the flavor. Potatoes can last a long time if you leave them in a paper bag in a cool, dark place. Keeping them away from light prevents them from turning green, too. And keep them away from other produce, which can force the potatoes to sprout and turn bad.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you just toss your eggshells away after you've whipped up a delicious frittata? You may think twice when you realize how beneficial they can be around the house. If you want to clean a bottle with a narrow neck, add crushed eggshells to water and a little soap and pour inside; swirl it around and the shells will help break up grime and dirt. Add eggshells to soil for your houseplants. The calcium-rich shells will give needed nutrients to your plants. And of course, add them to your compost. They'll break down and give a boost to your pile.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION