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How to Care for Fresh Wreaths and Garland

Lauren Bongers

By Lauren Bongers
Published October 30, 2023

There's nothing quite like fresh wreaths and garlands to ignite the holiday spirit. In this care guide, we'll give you a few tips and tricks to keep yours as fresh as possible all season long.

A navy blue door on a brick home decorated with a fresh wreath and garland.

Why Choose Fresh Wreaths and Garlands for the Holidays

A fresh garland hanging around the front door of a Craftsman-style home.

When it comes to holiday decorating, there’s really nothing like the real thing. Whether it’s a Christmas tree, wreath or garland, the natural beauty and fragrance of fresh pine, cedar or juniper is unmatched. Though today there are so many artificial wreaths and garlands that look real, there's still something special about bringing natural foliage into the home to create an authentic holiday look and feel.

How to Care For Fresh Wreaths and Garlands

If you opt for a fresh wreath for Christmas, or garland, here’s how to keep them looking their best all season long. After all, fresh wreaths and garlands are living, so you’ll want to care for them accordingly.

1. Choose the Freshest Greenery Available

A woman hanging a fresh wreath on a black wood fence.

Just like choosing ingredients for a meal, start with the freshest ingredients possible. When choosing your wreaths and garlands, look out for dry pine needles. If a wreath or garland looks dry or if many needles fall out when it’s lightly shaken, opt for one that’s fresher. Another good way to check if a wreath or garland is fresh is by its scent. The more fragrant, the better.

2. Soak Them in Water Prior to Hanging

A person soaking a fresh Christmas garland in a bathtub.

Submerge garlands and wreaths in a plastic storage container filled with water or a bathtub overnight, or at least for a few hours before hanging them. This will allow them to soak in as much moisture possible to keep them fresh throughout the holiday season. If you have a rain barrel, you can soak garlands and wreaths in that to avoid wasting unnecessary water.

3. Protect Them From the Elements

A real cedar Christmas wreath with a red bow.

Avoid placing wreaths and garlands in full sun which will dry them out. Most importantly, if hanging indoor garlands and wreaths, keep them away from vents and working fireplaces as dry air will quickly wither them out more than any other element.

4. Water Regularly

Use a spray bottle filled with water to spritz the front and back of your fresh Christmas wreaths and garlands. Spraying the back will ensure that the cut stems have access to water. Make sure to spray them every few days for best results.

Decorating Ideas

A dining table decorated with fresh Christmas garland with a Christmas tree in the background.

Front doors aren't the only place to hang wreaths and garlands. From table centerpieces and staircases to mantels and more, check out these DIY Christmas garland ideas and get inspired.

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