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There’s something undeniably magical about the fresh scent of evergreens or the rustic elegance of magnolia leaves adorning your door during the holidays. Live wreaths are a timeless decoration that add charm, warmth, and a touch of nature to your home. But how do you keep them looking fresh throughout the entire holiday season? With the right care, your wreaths can remain vibrant and fragrant for weeks or even months. Let’s dive into some tried-and-true tips to maintain your wreaths and make the most of this festive adornment.
1. Start With the Freshest Greens Possible
The journey to a long-lasting wreath begins with freshness. A freshly crafted wreath ensures a longer display life compared to one that’s been sitting in storage for weeks.
- Where to Buy:
- Local farmer’s markets or Christmas tree farms are excellent places to find wreaths made just before the sale.
- Specialized wreath-making companies often ship their products immediately after crafting, ensuring top-notch freshness.
- Signs of Freshness:
- For evergreen wreaths, look for soft, fragrant, and vibrant greenery. Avoid wreaths with brittle or discolored branches.
- For magnolia wreaths, ensure the leaves are supple and rich in color. Be cautious of bruised or crushed leaves, as they develop black spots during the drying process.
2. Keep Live Wreaths Out of Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight is a quick way to diminish the lifespan of live wreaths, whether they’re evergreen or magnolia. Heat and UV rays can dry out the greenery, causing it to fade and become brittle.
- Outdoor Placement:
- Hang your wreath in a shaded location, such as a covered porch or portico.
- Avoid west-facing exposure, where the afternoon sun is harshest.
- Indoor Placement:
- Keep wreaths away from heat sources like vents, fireplaces, or sunny windows.
- A cool room is the best environment for indoor wreaths.
3. Spritz Wreaths with Water Regularly
Moisture is essential for keeping live wreaths fresh. Spritzing the leaves helps maintain their natural hydration and keeps them looking lush.
- Frequency:
- Mist evergreen wreaths daily or every other day, focusing on both the front and back. This ensures maximum moisture absorption.
- For magnolia wreaths, spritz the front of the leaves every day or two.
- What to Use:
- A simple spray bottle with plain water is sufficient—no need for additives.
- This practice also works well for garlands and swags.
4. How Long Do Fresh Wreaths Last?
With proper care, live wreaths can last much longer than you might expect.
- Evergreen Wreaths:
- In cool, shaded outdoor locations, evergreen wreaths can stay fresh for weeks and sometimes even months, especially in colder climates. Indoors, their lifespan shortens significantly due to heat and dryness.
- Magnolia Wreaths:
- These wreaths dry over 10 to 14 days and develop a beautiful patina as they age. While their leaves become fragile, magnolia wreaths can often be stored and reused for years with proper care. Some customers report keeping them in good condition for decades!
After the Holidays
Once the festive season is over, don’t just toss your wreath into the trash. There are several eco-friendly and practical ways to repurpose or preserve it:
- Compost the Greenery:
The branches and leaves make excellent compost material, enriching your garden soil. - Recycle Metal Frames:
Separate and recycle any metal components used in the wreath’s construction. - Protect Garden Plants:
Use leftover branches to insulate tender perennials against harsh winter weather.
Some Fresh Note
Live wreaths bring a unique beauty and spirit to holiday decor. With a little extra care, you can enjoy their natural charm for weeks and even create memories that last for seasons to come. Whether it’s the scent of evergreens or the elegance of magnolia leaves, these wreaths are sure to keep your home festive and welcoming.
So, this holiday season, treat your wreaths with love and care—and let them treat you to the simple joys of nature and tradition.