Nothing says “holiday cheer” like a handmade garland crafted from fresh, aromatic greenery. Here in Northern Colorado, we’re surrounded by native trees and shrubs perfect for creating stunning holiday decorations. With just a little time and creativity, you can bring the beauty of our region into your home.
This guide will walk you through making a holiday garland using real greenery sourced from your backyard.
The Beauty of Local Greenery
Evergreens are the cornerstone of a vibrant, year-round landscape, providing color and structure even in the depths of winter. Their low-maintenance nature and versatility make them ideal for privacy, windbreaks, or simply adding natural beauty to your yard. Visit Fossil Creek Nursery to explore our wide variety of evergreens and find the perfect addition to your outdoor space!
Northern Colorado is home to a variety of evergreens and shrubs that are perfect for holiday crafting. Here are some great options:
- Douglas Fir: Soft needles and a classic fragrance make this a holiday favorite.
- Blue Spruce: Its silvery-blue color adds a unique and elegant touch.
- Ponderosa Pine: Long needles provide texture and a rustic feel.
- Juniper: Add a pop of color with its blue berries.
- Western Red Cedar: Known for its graceful, flowing branches.
- Holly or Oregon Grape: These shrubs bring shiny green leaves and vibrant red or purple berries.
When gathering greenery, trim branches sparingly to preserve the health of your trees and shrubs.
Materials You’ll Need
- Fresh-cut greenery (a mix of the varieties listed above works best)
- Floral wire or twine
- Pruning shears or scissors
- Accent materials: pinecones, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, or ribbon
- Hooks or nails for hanging
Plan and Gather
Decide where your garland will go—mantel, staircase, doorway—and measure the space to determine the length. Gather more greenery than you think you’ll need to ensure a full and lush look.
Create a Base
Cut a sturdy length of twine or floral wire to serve as the backbone of your garland. For added structure, you can use a rope or premade faux garland as a base.
Build Your Garland
- Trim Branches: Cut your greenery into small sections (6–12 inches).
- Make Bundles: Gather 2–3 pieces of greenery to form a small bundle. Mix textures and types for a natural look.
- Attach to the Base: Starting at one end of your twine, lay a bundle down and wrap it tightly with floral wire.
- Overlap and Repeat: Place the next bundle slightly overlapping the first, securing with wire. Continue until your garland is complete.
Add Seasonal Flair
Once the greenery is in place, enhance your garland with natural and festive accents:
- Pinecones: Collect them locally and attach them with wire.
- Berries: Use sprigs of juniper or holly for pops of color.
- Dried Oranges and Cinnamon Sticks: For a cozy, fragrant touch.
- Ribbon or Twine: Add bows or weave it through the greenery.
Holiday Bonus: Create your own dried orange slices!
- Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 200°F (90°C).
- Prepare the Oranges: Slice oranges into thin, even rounds (about 1/4 inch thick). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Put the tray in the oven and bake for 2–3 hours. Flip the slices every 30 minutes to ensure even drying.
- Check for Doneness: The slices are ready when they’re dry and slightly translucent but not browned.
- Cool: Let the slices cool completely before using them in crafts or decor.
Hang and Enjoy
Secure your garland in place using hooks, nails, or ribbons. For a staircase, tie the garland at intervals with decorative bows for an elegant effect.
Caring for Your Garland
To keep your garland looking fresh throughout the season:
- Hydrate Regularly: Spritz the greenery with water daily.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Keep the garland away from fireplaces or heating vents to prevent drying out.
