If you’re making tabletop and mantel decorations from evergreen branches, your own garden may have much to offer. Boughs of cedar, boxwood, fir, juniper, hemlock and spruce are handy for holiday projects, but first consider where to make the cuts. Sometimes an overgrown shrub or tree is in need of trimming to balance its shape, and you may be able to use the branches you’ve … [Read more...] about Cutting your own boughs for holiday decorations
December in the garden
Designing a beautiful winter container
In winter, designing a beautiful container is more about artfully arranging cut branches than growing colourful plants. However, the design principles you follow for summer or spring planters still apply: a variety of textures; a focal point; and a well-balanced composition help make a beautiful display. Select a container that contrasts well with what will be mostly a … [Read more...] about Designing a beautiful winter container
Forcing bulbs and dreaming of spring
Did you get all your bulbs planted this autumn before the weather turned cold? If you didn’t, don’t panic — I have been known to plant bulbs in a mild spell on Christmas Eve and on New Year’s Day, although this year I managed to get all of mine planted by mid-November — almost unheard of! If you don’t expect to see mild weather or bare ground before spring, and still have some … [Read more...] about Forcing bulbs and dreaming of spring
Make your own winter arrangements
Now is the time when many shrubs and trees go through their annual sacrifice of branches to help fill our outdoor containers with colour and texture during winter. I fill two large containers on our front porch in early December, choosing branches that will last until it’s time to replace them with pansies next spring. Look in your garden for materials that will add interest … [Read more...] about Make your own winter arrangements
Decking the halls with greenery
Like many gardeners, I love to bring fresh greenery and branches into my home to use in vases, garlands and wreaths. I contacted Hilary Bellis of It Can Be Arranged in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., to get some basic tips on decorating with greenery and ideas for using new materials. Hilary decorates many of the hotels, businesses and wineries in the town. She knows her way around … [Read more...] about Decking the halls with greenery
