The £3 hack to make your Christmas wreath last all year
Christmas wreaths are a festive staple, adding charm to homes during the holiday season, that is, until they dry out, lose their vibrancy, and become brittle.
But it turns out there's a simple budget-friendly method to preserving your fresh wreath and ensuring it lasts long after Christmas and even into the New Year – and it's all down to glycerine, which can be purchased online for as little as £3.
'The best way to preserve your wreath for weeks, or even months, is to use the glycerine preserve method,' begins Craig Wilson, founder of online gardening retailer, Gardeners Dream. 'Glycerine is a natural compound that helps plants and foliage retain moisture, keeping the needles and leaves pliable, hydrated, and soft.'
Here's how to do it:
Mix one part glycerine with two parts warm water in a large container, stirring to dissolve. Warm water helps the foliage absorb the solution more effectively.
If you want to maintain the wreath’s vibrant green, add a few drops of food colouring to the mix.
Submerge your wreath in the solution for 24 to 48 hours, or up to a week for optimal results.
Once soaked, let the wreath air dry on a flat surface, covering it with a tea towel in a well-ventilated space to prevent mould.
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To decorate your preserved wreath, Craig suggests adding dried orange slices, pine cones, or bows. For an extra festive touch, a spritz of pine or cinnamon essential oil can evoke classic Christmas scents.
By using the glycerine preserve method, 'wreaths can last up to an entire year if stored carefully in cool, dry conditions,' says Craig. 'To keep it going for as long as possible, keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat like above a radiator to prevent it from drying out and fading.'
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