Why Use Fresh Greenery for Holiday Decorating
There’s something timeless and magical about bringing the beauty of nature indoors during the holiday season. Fresh greenery, along with seed pods, pine cones, berries, and other interesting natural elements, adds not only fragrance and texture but also a sense of coziness, warmth, and simplicity that store-bought décor just can’t provide.
The collection of natural items for use in holiday decorating can be enjoyed by all ages. It’s a great way to spend time together outside, collecting interesting natural items and promoting creative ideas on how to display nature’s bounty. Celebrate the holiday season by involving young and old to create special holiday traditions.
How to Create a Pedestal Centerpiece with Fresh Greenery
Materials Needed:
- Pedestal cake stand
- Grapevine wreath the same circumference as the cake stand
- Container for the middle to support the statuary or candles
- Fresh greenery
- Fresh berries or faux berry clusters
- Spanish moss to conceal the container
- Dried orange slices, if desired
- Battery-powered lights
- Statuary or candles for the centerpiece
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the support container in the center of the cake stand, surrounded by the grapevine wreath.
- To fit the 10-inch diameter cake stand, a 10-inch grapevine was chosen.
- Insert fresh greenery and berry clusters around the wreath form.
2. Hydrate the greenery
- Note: Always soak your greenery overnight or up to 24 hours in cold water to fully hydrate it before use, which will help keep the greenery fresher longer.
Decorating with Fresh Greenery: Nature’s Holiday Magic
The support container is placed in the middle of the grapevine wreath, then fresh greenery is added to the wreath form.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
3. Layer the Spanish moss over and around the container for a hidden, finished look.
Use Spanish moss to add a textural element and to hide the support container.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
4. Add decorative touches such as:
- Battery-powered lights
- Dried oranges
- Holiday statue
- Candles
These elements create a warm, seasonal centerpiece for your dining room table.
A twig and straw reindeer adds a woodland effect to the pedestal arrangement.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
The Santa statue adds a festive touch to the centerpiece.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Dried oranges, battery-lit candles and LED lights add a magical touch to your holiday festivities.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Thank you for being part of our HGIC community. Happy Holidays, everyone!
