Looking for a wreath? Here's how to pick the best indoor and outdoor greenery
Drive around during the holidays and you'll notice live wreaths of many types and sizes. The lush greens from New York state make the most beautiful and fragrant wreaths. For many centuries, wreaths were bendable twigs decorating doors, some for protection and others for decoration. In the 18th century, evergreen and fir wreaths started adorning doors and windows. Today, the holiday wreath is a melting pot of tradition and history.
Choosing a wreath
You can make your own wreath using greenery in your garden. You can find videos online to give you advice. When gathering live greenery from shrubs and trees, remember that you are actually pruning these plants.
Therefore, consider carefully which branches to cut and which ones to leave. If you don't want to make your own wreath, many local farms and nurseries can help make and design a wreath for you. As a general rule, pines, firs and cedars are good greenery choices for indoor wreaths because they dry out slowly and hold needles best at warmer indoor temperatures. Hemlock, spruce, and most broadleaf evergreens will last longer when used outdoors.
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Keeping wreaths fresh
Wreaths hung outside don't need special attention to stay fresh; many will last for several weeks. Real wreaths hung indoors will not last as long as those that are outside.
If making your own wreath, soak the greenery in water overnight before arranging; this allows the cuttings to absorb moisture. You can also buy products considered "anti-transpirants" which can help seal in moisture; these products are sprayed on your wreath. Be sure to read and follow product label instructions. You can also lightly mist your wreaths.
Evergreens that dry up indoors can be a fire hazard; so, check your indoor wreaths regularly. Keep all greenery out of reach of children and pets. Celebrate the holidays this year with a fresh wreath.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County answers home and garden questions which can be emailed to homeandgarden@cornell.edu or call 315-736-3394, press 1 and ext. 333. Leave your question, name and phone number. Questions are answered weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, visit our website at cceoneida.com/ or phone 315-736-3394, press 1 and then ext.100.
This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Holiday wreaths: How to choose indoor, outdoor greenery this season
