Create a Warm Welcome!

Freshen Up Your Garden and Home for Holiday Guests

December is a time for family, friends, fellowship and enjoying the landscape- not slaving in it! But holiday guests are on their way and you want your landscape and home to be beautiful and welcoming, so here are a few simple, quick and effective ways to do just that:

• Remove any dead plant material from beds and snip dead branches from shrubs and trees.
• Cut back dormant perennials.
• Add a 2-3" layer of mulch to shrub and flower beds- this is an easy way to neaten up the landscape before a holiday gathering and makes a big impact!
• Wrap your mailbox post in fresh garland and swag.
• Hang wreaths on light posts, doors, windows, garden walls or gates.
• A pot of bright pansies with lemon cypress creates a happy welcome, or let rich, green ivy cascade from a porch table or tall pot.
• Place a potted rosemary in a sunny spot where guests can enjoy the fragrant foliage as they pass by.
• A potted conifer, wrapped in burlap and strung with lights brightens a patio or entryway and can be planted later!
• A vase of freshly cut incense cedar or mixed greenery on an entry hall table creates an aromatic welcome.
• Tablescapes that incorporate fresh cut greenery and live plants will delight your guests: Lay small wreaths on a table and place candles in and around them. Decorate with small pots of poinsettias, herbs or houseplants and then give them as gifts to friends and family!
• Fill a basket or container with indoor blooms and foliage for a stunning centerpiece. Add a few stems of fresh cut greenery on the day of the gathering.

Decorating for the Holidays

Just Got a Little Easier...