The Longevity Of Christmas Wreaths: How Long Can They Last?

Christmas wreaths are a beautiful way to bring the outdoors inside during the festive season, but how long do they last? Well, that depends on a few factors. Firstly, the climate – in colder climates, a wreath can last up to 6-8 weeks, whereas in warmer, drier climates, they tend to last 4-6 weeks. The second factor is how well you care for your wreath. To keep a wreath fresh, it's important to keep it hydrated, so misting or spritzing it with water regularly is essential. Other care tips include keeping your wreath out of direct sunlight and covering it with a plastic bag at night to retain moisture. With the right care, your Christmas wreath should stay fresh throughout the holiday season.

Climate: In colder climates, Christmas wreaths can last up to 8 weeks, whereas in warmer climates, they may only last 4-6 weeks

The longevity of a Christmas wreath depends on several factors, and climate is a significant one. Christmas wreaths, being made of fresh foliage, are susceptible to the elements, and their lifespan can vary depending on whether the climate is cold or warm.

In colder climates, Christmas wreaths can last up to 8 weeks. The cooler temperatures help to preserve the foliage, keeping it fresh and vibrant. Lynch Creek Farm, a company that specialises in live wreaths, notes that in colder climates, their wreaths can last up to 8 weeks, and they have even had customers whose wreaths lasted until March. The reduced temperature slows down the natural decay process, allowing the wreath to maintain its colour and texture.

On the other hand, in warmer climates, Christmas wreaths may only last 4-6 weeks. The higher temperatures can accelerate the deterioration of the foliage, causing it to dry out and turn brown more quickly. The heat can cause the needles to fall out and the wreath to lose its fragrance. Therefore, in warmer climates, it is recommended to receive fresh evergreens in the first or second week of December to ensure they last through the Christmas season.

To maximise the lifespan of a Christmas wreath in a warmer climate, it is essential to provide extra care. This includes keeping the wreath moist, either by misting it with water regularly or soaking it in water for 24 hours before hanging it up. Additionally, hanging the wreath in a cool, shaded place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, can help prolong its freshness.

In summary, the climate plays a crucial role in determining how long a Christmas wreath will last. Colder climates allow for a longer lifespan of up to 8 weeks, while warmer climates may shorten the wreath's longevity to 4-6 weeks. Proper care and attention can help extend the life of a wreath in warmer conditions.

Freshness: A fresh wreath will last longer. Check for a strong fragrance, soft needles, and bright colour

A fresh wreath is key to longevity. The fresher the wreath, the longer it will last. So, how do you know if a wreath is fresh?

First, give it a good shake. If a lot of needles fall out, the wreath is likely a few weeks old. Next, smell it. A fresh wreath should have a strong fragrance, reminiscent of a newly cut Christmas tree. The needles should be soft, green, and not grey.

When buying a wreath, opt for one from a local Christmas tree farm, a farmer's market vendor, or a company that specialises in wreath-making. These wreaths are usually made right before they're sold, so they're fresher than those shipped to big box retailers.

Pine and cedar wreaths are popular choices, as these evergreens hold their colour. However, pine varieties tend to drop their needles as they dry out, so a cedar wreath may be a better option if you want less mess.

Hydration: Keep the wreath moist by misting it with water regularly. Soaking the wreath before hanging can also help

Keeping your wreath hydrated is key to ensuring it stays fresh throughout the holiday season. A wreath made from fresh, genuine evergreen foliage will inevitably wilt over time as it dries out, so it's important to keep it moist.

If you're storing your wreath before hanging, infuse it with moisture by spraying it with cool water and then placing it in a plastic bag in a cool place, like a garage or refrigerator.

To soak your wreath, place it in a bathtub, sink, or large bucket of cool water for a full 24 hours before hanging it up. This method ensures deep hydration, so your wreath can stay fresh for longer.

To keep your wreath moist, mist it with water regularly. Use a spray bottle filled with water and keep the spritz intensity light. Mist your wreath up to three times a day, or at least every other day. You can also spritz the back of the wreath, where the cut ends of the boughs are, every two to three days.

Sunlight: Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the wreath to dry out and turn brown

Sunlight is the number one factor that affects the lifespan of cut greenery. Christmas wreaths should be kept out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to dry out and turn brown faster. "Quality live wreaths can last up to eight weeks outdoors, but will likely only last a couple of weeks in full sun or inside," says Andy Hunter, wreathmaker and owner of Lynch Creek Farm.

To prevent your wreath from drying out, it's important to keep it hydrated. This can be done by spritzing or misting the wreath with water regularly. Aim to spritz or mist your wreath at least once or twice a week, or even up to three times a day if you want to stave off the browning process.

In addition to regular misting, you can also try an anti-transpirant or anti-desiccant plant spray to help lock in moisture and protect your wreath from the sun. These sprays are designed to protect foliage from heat, sunlight, wind burn, and other elements that might cause it to dry out too quickly.

If you're hanging your wreath indoors, it's best to place it in a cool room away from direct heating sources such as heating vents, fireplaces, and sunny windows. Hanging your wreath above a bed or sofa will also help prolong its lifespan, as these spots will be less exposed to the elements.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Christmas wreath stays fresh and vibrant throughout the holiday season.

Heat sources: Keep the wreath away from heat sources such as fireplaces or vents, as these can cause it to decline faster

Heat sources are one of the biggest factors in how long a Christmas wreath will last. To make your wreath last longer, it's best to keep it away from heat sources such as fireplaces or vents.

Heat and direct sunlight will cause a wreath to decline much faster. "If you prefer your wreath to stay greener longer, keep it out of direct light and heat," says Christina Stembel, the CEO of Farmgirl Flowers. "Indoor spots like above beds and sofas will be less exposed to the elements, and your wreath will stay lusher, longer," she adds.

Stembel suggests placing wreaths away from heat sources like vents and fireplaces. Windows, doors, and mirrors are all great places to consider hanging your wreath.

If you're placing your wreath outdoors, avoid direct sunlight as it will dry out the wreath more quickly. If you must place your wreath in direct sunlight, be diligent about keeping it hydrated so it will last all season.

The location of your wreath makes a difference in its lifespan. Hanging your wreath in the wrong spot will cause it to decline much faster.

Frequently asked questions