When it comes to natural garlands, the choice of base and a few practical precautions can make the difference: small details are enough to make the greenery last much longer, even at home.
There are those who prefer intertwined vine branches, those who rely on straw or rediscover almost forgotten materials. But every season brings its own challenges – and even a little creativity. Talk about natural garlands it means dealing with the rhythm of the seasons, choosing the most suitable base and some simple tricks to prevent leaves and berries from withering quickly. The materials often come directly from the garden or from a walk (if you look carefully, sometimes all you have to do is bend down at the foot of a hedge). In many cases, the duration of the composition depends more on the structure than on the flowers themselves: choosing the wrong support, in fact, risks compromising the entire work after just a few days.
Each base brings with it advantages and small pitfalls. Some resist humidity better, others let air filter or retain water too much: it seems like a small detail, but it makes the difference, especially if the garland has to stay indoors. It often happens, among other things, that the more technical part is underestimated (such as the ties, the distance between the branches, even the position of the garland in relation to heat sources). Some tricks, learned partly by chance and partly by trial and error, help to maintain freshness and give a less “dull” appearance even after several days.
How to choose the base of the natural wreath
The base it is the heart of the natural garland. From straw to metal structures, through woven branches and floral sponges (the latter more for outdoors, often), the alternatives are many. But the choice also depends on what you have on hand. It happens, sometimes, that you find yourself improvising with fresh willow threads, bramble branches or simple circles of thin wood: materials that in autumn, for example, are really easy to recover. For those looking for a light and airy structure, intertwined vine branches remain a classic. They are easy to shape, hold their shape well and let the decorative elements breathe. On the other hand, those who want a more robust base (perhaps to support heavy berries or bulky elements) often opt for a metal ring covered in moss or straw: an idea which, among other things, lends itself to many recycles.
Then there is the floral sponge, excellent when using fresh flowers that need water. But be careful: it should only be chosen for temporary compositions and not for garlands to hang outdoors in the colder months, because it tends to dry out and become brittle. Sometimes you just need to look around, literally, to find the most suitable solution. An old embroidery hoop, for example, can become an original and light base. Or an iron wire covered in raffia, simple and discreet. Small ideas born perhaps by chance, while rummaging in the garage.
Natural materials and combinations that really work
Choose the materials for your own natural garland it is a question of sensitivity (and also luck). In spring, flowering twigs, tender leaves and some aromatic herbs abound. In autumn, however, berries, dried fruits, pine cones and leathery leaves prevail, which better resist the dry air of heated houses.
Among the most resistant and easy to manage combinations are:
- Eucalyptus branches (smells and lasts a long time).
- Rosehip berries and small dried fruits.
- Pine cones and fir sprigs, for winter wreaths.
- Laurel or olive leaves, evergreen and robust.
- Ears of wheat and lavender, for a summer touch.
It is important to remember that not all materials react in the same way: some berries tend to stain, while certain leaves lose consistency in environments that are too dry. Better to experiment with what you find and note what works best, season after season. And then there is the often overlooked detail of the ties: natural twine, cotton threads, raffia. Each material has its own character and contributes to the harmony of the final result.
Practical tricks to make a natural garland last longer
Let’s get to the sore point: how to make a natural wreath last without finding yourself collecting dry leaves after just a few days? In reality, a little attention can extend the life of compositions, even in winter or in the warmer months. First of all, it is better to avoid exposing the garland to direct heat sources (radiators, fireplaces, too sunny windows). Dry air, in particular, accelerates the wilting of flowers and leaves. A simple trick: spray water with a spray bottle every two or three days, but don’t overdo it (especially if there are berries that tend to rot easily).
For wreaths with a floral sponge base, remember to slightly moisten the sponge before inserting the materials and check that it does not dry out completely. If, however, you use “drier” bases, such as woven branches or straw, you can focus on natural elements that are already dry or resistant.
And if you really don’t want to risk it, you can alternate between fresh and dry materials, creating a composition that changes appearance as the days go by. After all, even a slightly worn garland tells a story: you just need to let it speak, without forcing your hand too much.
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