Buzz
Credit: Juliette Wade/Getty ImagesIf your holiday decor dreams involve an abundance of Christmas wreaths, take note: Your wreath might not be getting the care it deserves. Similar to keeping your Christmas tree from shedding needles, every fresh wreath requires proper attention.
Luckily, we consulted an expert with a wealth of knowledge to help you nurture your wreath like a pro. Discover her top tips to ensure your wreath stays fresh and vibrant all season long.
Select a Fresh Wreath
To ensure your wreath stays vibrant, pick one that is genuinely fresh. Avoid wreaths that appear dry or, worse, show signs of browning.
To check if a live Christmas wreath is fresh, gently shake it. If numerous needles fall off, it’s likely several weeks old. Another freshness test is to take a sniff—a fresh wreath should smell like a recently cut Christmas tree.
Searching for long-lasting winter greens? Pine and cedar wreaths are favorites due to their ability to retain color. However, Stembel mentions that pine varieties shed needles as they dry, so for a cleaner option, choose a cedar wreath without needles.
Fluff Your Wreath After Bringing It Home
Stembel emphasizes the need to shake your wreath if it’s been compressed during delivery. "Once you’re home, give your wreath a thorough fluff," she advised. "Similar to styling hair, use your fingers to separate the foliage and restore its shape."
This can be done by gently working your fingers against the natural direction of the greens, fluffing them as you move around the wreath.
Maintain Foliage Hydration
Stembel notes that caring for your wreath begins the moment you choose a fresh one. "To revive its natural scent, lightly mist it with water once or twice weekly," she suggested.
For optimal results, mist your wreath up to twice daily. Use a spray bottle with water on the lightest setting—aim for a gentle mist rather than soaking it.
Submerge Your Wreath Before Displaying
To keep your wreath hydrated and in great condition, consider giving it a soak after bringing it home. Submerge your natural wreath in room-temperature water in a bathtub or large bucket for 24 hours before hanging it. This deep hydration method helps maintain its freshness for an extended period.
Steer Clear of Heat and Direct Sunlight
The placement of your wreath significantly impacts its longevity. Choosing the wrong spot can cause it to deteriorate faster. "To keep your wreath vibrant for as long as possible, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight and heat," Stembel advised.
Indoor
"Indoor locations such as above beds or sofas are less exposed to harsh conditions, helping your wreath remain lush and vibrant for a longer time," Stembel explained. Ensure wreaths are kept away from heat sources like vents or fireplaces. Ideal spots include windows, doors, and mirrors for hanging your wreath.
Outdoor
For outdoor wreaths, often placed on doors or windows, avoid direct sunlight to prevent rapid drying. If direct sunlight is unavoidable, make sure to hydrate the wreath regularly to ensure it lasts throughout the season.
Protect Your Wreath Overnight
While not all wreaths need covering, consider this nighttime routine for indoor wreaths, especially those near heat sources. Mist the wreath before bed and cover it with a plastic bag—preferably a drawstring trash bag. This practice helps maintain the freshness of your indoor wreaths for an extended period.
Start by sliding the bag over the wreath from the bottom, then secure it by tightening the drawstring at the top. Using a plastic bag overnight helps retain moisture, ensuring your wreath stays fresh. In the morning, take off the bag and lightly mist the wreath with water again.
