How to Make Sustainable Wreaths and Ornaments from the Garden

Introduction

The holiday season is the perfect time to bring the beauty of your garden indoors. Instead of buying mass-produced decorations, why not create something more personal and sustainable? Crafting holiday wreaths and ornaments from your garden is not only eco-friendly but also a wonderful way to add a natural touch to your festive decor. Here’s how you can get started, along with some tips for keeping it simple and impactful.

Create Your Own Sustainable Wreaths

Wreaths are a holiday classic, but store-bought options often come with plastic and other non-recyclable materials. Making your own wreath from garden trimmings not only reduces waste but also gives you a chance to showcase the unique beauty of your outdoor space.

Start by gathering materials from your garden or local greenery. Look for items like evergreen branches, holly, rosemary, or lavender. You’ll also need a base—options include a wire frame, a biodegradable straw wreath form, or even a circle of grapevines you can twist together.

Steps to Make a Sustainable Wreath

• Choose Your Greenery: Select fresh clippings from trees or shrubs. Evergreens like cedar or pine are great for structure, while herbs like rosemary add fragrance.
• Assemble Your Base: Attach your greenery to the wreath form using natural twine or floral wire.
• Add Natural Accents: Decorate with pinecones, dried berries, or small bundles of herbs. For a splash of color, you can even incorporate dried flowers from your summer garden.
• Finish with a Natural Ribbon: Opt for a burlap or fabric ribbon that can be reused or composted.

Garden-Inspired Ornaments for a Personal Touch

Handmade ornaments are a simple way to bring garden elements into your holiday decor. They’re perfect for hanging on the tree or gifting to friends and family. One easy option is to use dried herbs, seeds, or small plant cuttings.

Herb Sachet Ornaments

If you have an herb garden, you can make fragrant sachet ornaments. Fill small fabric pouches with dried lavender, rosemary, or mint, then tie them closed with twine. These make great tree decorations and double as thoughtful gifts.

Pressed Flower Ornaments

Use pressed flowers from your garden to create unique ornaments. Arrange the flowers on a piece of recycled paper, seal them with clear adhesive, and cut into shapes for hanging. These are lightweight and add a delicate, natural aesthetic to your tree.

Dried Citrus Decorations

Citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemons, can be sliced and dried to make colorful ornaments. Simply thread a piece of twine through each slice and hang them up. The drying process is straightforward and fills your home with a festive aroma.

Benefits of Sustainable Holiday Decorations

Making your own decorations from the garden isn’t just about saving money. It’s a thoughtful way to reduce holiday waste, connect with nature, and create something truly unique. Plus, incorporating garden elements like herbs or dried citrus adds natural fragrance to your home, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.

These decorations are also biodegradable, meaning they can return to the earth after the season ends. Compost any leftover trimmings and let your garden continue its life cycle without unnecessary waste.

Conclusion

Eco-friendly holiday decorations are more than just a trend—they’re a meaningful way to celebrate the season while caring for the planet. By using materials from your garden, you’re creating unique decor that reflects your personality and your commitment to sustainability.

Whether you’re crafting a wreath, ornaments, or herb sachets, each piece will carry a story, making your holiday celebrations feel even more special. Give it a try this year and see how simple, sustainable choices can transform your home for the holidays.