As the year draws to a close, holiday spirit fills the air during a variety of cultural traditions and celebrations. Whether you observe Thanksgiving, Diwali, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s or another occasion, one of the most charming and versatile elements you can add to your festive decor is plants and flowers. They not only bring a breath of nature indoors during the cold winter months but also infuse your space with vibrant color and life.
Maintaining and Evolving Traditions
Traditional Christmas trees such as pine, fir and spruce are timeless holiday focal points and long appreciated for their fragrant needles and joyful appearance. “Norfolk Island Pine is a wonderful little tree that can be used indoors year-round,” explains Ruby Hammond of Sargent’s on 2nd. “It can be left natural or decorated for any occasion.” For a unique approach, trim your tree with natural dried fruits, pinecones and cinnamon sticks.
Poinsettias, which are popular holiday plants, are known for their delightful red, pink or white petals. Placed on the fireplace mantel or used as a centerpiece, they’re a perfect pop of color for your home.
“Mistletoe and kissing balls are not only beautiful but also a fun tradition for the holiday season,” adds Emily Fritsch, owner of Emily Fritsch Interiors. “I am big on decorating with traditional Christmas colors like red, green, gold, silver and white, but if you are excited about incorporating a new color scheme, go with it. It’s all about what brings you the most holiday cheer.”
Growing Tips
• Christmas trees should have a good stand that is kept filled with water and preservative. Keep the tree out of direct sun and away from heat vents.
• Poinsettias prefer warmth and bright light, so avoid exposing them to cold drafts and water only when the soil feels dry.
• A mistletoe kissing ball can be misted with water regularly to help keep it fresh.
Embed Culture, Positivity
The holidays are a perfect time to incorporate cultural elements into your decor. “The traditional colors of Hanukkah are blue and white, and decorating with containers in these colors, along with beautiful white blooming plants, works nicely,” says Hammond. “White poinsettias or cyclamen, which has unique flowers and foliage, are lovely as well. The official colors of Kwanzaa are red, black and green, and red kalanchoes are often used for this holiday as well as poinsettias.”
Hammond and Fritsch recommend adding plants and flowers to the spaces where you spend the most time, which will enhance the festive mood and bring small sparks of joy even on the gloomiest days.
Growing Tips
Cyclamen should be watered thoroughly when the top of the soil feels dry. Place in a bright location with indirect sunlight; they are good to use in a cooler interior.
Kalanchoe plants should be watered when the top two inches of soil are dry, with less frequent watering in the winter. Position them in a bright indoor spot.
Cultivate Growth, Renewal
There are many ways to integrate greenery and blooms into your year-end festivities and beyond. “Christmas cactus is a lovely addition. They come in several colors and are easy to grow,” says Hammond. “Orchids are wonderful with any decor. The Phalaenopsis orchid blooms last for months, and it is surprisingly easy to grow. Plants, such as varieties of jasmine or gardenia, will add fragrance and beauty to welcome in the new year.”
Fresh garland is ideal for decorating staircases and mantels. Fritsch blends cedar garland with twinkling lights to create an elegant effect. “It’s a wonderful way to give your space a winter feel and can be left up even after the holiday season,” she says.
Create beautiful arrangements using seasonal flowers such as an amaryllis. Or decorate with potted plants like mini-Christmas trees or rosemary bushes, which guests can take home as favors. Floral enhancements can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Whatever your preference, the beauty and freshness will help you nurture both your plants and yourself.
Growing Tips
• Christmas cactus should be placed in bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Water Phalaenopsis orchids when the potting medium is dry and avoid overwatering. These orchids thrive in bright, indirect light.
• Garland should be kept away from heat sources. Mist it with water every day or two to keep it fresh.
• Amaryllis does will in direct sun and cooler temperatures. When blooming is complete, the bulb can be saved, and with proper care, it can bloom again the following year.
As you gather with family and friends, let the warmth and beauty of plants and flowers enhance your decor—and the joy of your holiday season.
Learn more:
sargentsgardens.com
emilyfritschinteriors.com
