Image credit: Getty Images/K Neville
Your garden may be in retreat but it’s a rich source of decorations this festive season – and a great place of escape for some peace and planning.
So whether you’re in need of a quiet breath of fresh air this winter, or you want to bring the calming essence of nature indoors, here are some easy ideas for creating nature-inspired decorations that will wow your guests this Christmas.
Escape into your garden to gather homegrown greenery for a wreath and decorative swags that celebrate the season.
Form your frame out of long stems of willow, hazel, cornus, wisteria or clematis vine, soaked for a few hours so they flex, then shaped into a ring with twine.
If that sounds too tricky you can buy wreath rings ready made, either from moss from your local garden centre, or artificial ones from online retailers, such as Amazon.
Weave and tie in fresh-cut stems from evergreen shrubs, climbers or Christmas tree offcuts through the ring to make a generous base.
Group berries, small fruits, dried cinnamon sticks or chillies for colour, tying or wiring them onto the frame.
Top off with a flamboyant, colourful ribbon to secure it to your door.
Elizabeth Marshall, Christmas buyer at Hillier Garden Centres, has this tip to bring extra glamour to your Christmas decorations.
“Try weaving in elements of gold to your garlands and wreaths, as well as throughout the home," she explains.
"Gold glistens magically under candlelight, casting soft glows that can enhance a cosy evening indoors, tucked up with a Christmas movie on the TV and a warming drink in hand.”
Marshall also suggests a winter woodland theme at this time of year, to bring the magic of nature indoors.
"This theme is rooted in the beauty of the natural world, making it perfect for creating a cosy yet rustic atmosphere," she says.
“Wreaths made from natural materials can further enhance the winter woodland theme, whether you choose a fresh wreath or an artificial, just fill them with twigs, pinecones, berries and other natural items that helps bring that forest feeling to your home.”
“My favourite trending décor this year is Festive Eden,” Marshall says. Inspired by the regency era of the Rococo ballrooms, transform your home into a grand festive celebration.
“This theme transforms the home into a lush and regal retreat, inspired by elegant pastels, golds and rich greens, with added nature-inspired decorations for true enchantment.
“Begin by layering in gold and vibrant baubles, with delicate designs in metallics, white or glass to maintain a festive and warm aesthetic. Complement the colour carefully with botanical ornaments like dipped leaves and pinecones to evoke the richness and beauty of nature.”
Your garden will have plenty to offer for decorations to enhance your theme. Our tip is to major on evergreens and get creative with the details.
Nothing beats the scent and meaning of a real Christmas tree in the house – but a shower of needles dampens the joy!
Natural trees (even claimed ‘no-drop’ ones) need water to retain their good looks till Twelfth Night. So when the tree arrives, before you decorate, re-cut the trunk – you need remove only about an inch with a pruning saw – and sit it in a bucket of water overnight, somewhere cool.
Once in position, ideally keep the trunk in water throughout Christmas so it’s hydrated – or if open to the air, spray its foliage daily with water.
If your tree is looking a little uneven, don’t be afraid to give it a trim.
You can use the cut branches in your natural decorations – weave into your wreath or place on the mantel with a sprig of berries and a sprinkling of pine cones.
After the excess of Christmas, fresh air restores the mood. The big botanic gardens (Kew, Edinburgh, Wales), RHS gardens and major stately homes (Blenheim Palace, Longleat, Castle Howard) all put on a show with festive lights.
For gardens that still dazzle in winter, with lights and family fun, try Trentham Gardens, near Stoke-on-Trent.
Christmas downtime gives you the headspace to imagine your 2025 garden.
Be inspired by Sarah Raven for cutting flower colour, Chiltern Seeds for ornamental and edible discoveries, Seeds of Italy for delicious ingredients and generous packets and the new heirloom veg specialist SheGrowsVeg.
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