Let's Look At - Using Christmas Tree Trimmings

Celebrate the Holiday Season with the aromas of Christmas Trees!!

​As fresh Christmas trees are becoming available for the season, look for the trimmings that are removed from the base of the tree at the tree lot.
At the tree lot, there should be numerous varieties of trees available.  Look for branches of different sizes. Look for long branches as well as the short branches. Be bold and mix the different types. 

It is amazing to me the amount of greenery I can get from just a few Christmas Tree branches! The trick is to cut the limbs into smaller pieces. Look at each branch. Look for the thickest stem of the branch. Look for small clusters of limbs. Cut close to the thick stem of the branch to create these clusters. 

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As I cut each piece of greenery, I cut it at an angle. Cutting a stem on an angle gives a finished look. Remember, make the cuts close to the thick stem or at the base of clusters.
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I use a rose stripper to remove the needles and bark from the base of each cutting. This allows the greenery to drink water and simpler to place the stem into wet floral foam.

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I use floral foam for arrangements. This allows a lot of water to remain in the container. It also firmly stabilizes the stems of the arrangement.
I keep Christmas greenery throughout the Holidays. Not only does it add a festive touch, but the aroma also just lifts my spirits. The aromas are released when the branches and needles are changed. Sometimes all you have to do to refresh the aroma is to pinch the end of a branch of the Christmas greenery! Enjoy!