The Best Time To Take Down Your Christmas Wreath

There are many different opinions on how long is appropriate to leave your Christmas wreath up. Some people take their wreaths down with the Christmas tree, whereas others leave them up until mid-January. Some people even leave their wreaths up until Easter or until the middle of June! If you have a live wreath, it's likely to only last 4-8 weeks, depending on the climate. However, if your wreath is artificial, it's really up to you how long you leave it up for.

Climate considerations: Colder climates prolong wreath lifespan, while dry climates shorten it

The lifespan of an artificial Christmas wreath varies depending on the climate. While some people prefer to take down their wreaths right after the holidays, others opt to keep them up until the middle of January. Some even leave them up until their wreaths die, which can take months.

Climate plays a significant role in determining how long an artificial wreath will last. Colder climates, such as those in northern states, tend to prolong the lifespan of wreaths. In these regions, a wreath can last anywhere from six to eight weeks, and some have even lasted until March. The cold temperatures help preserve the wreath, keeping it looking festive for an extended period.

On the other hand, dry climates or southern states can shorten the lifespan of artificial wreaths. In these regions, wreaths typically last about four to six weeks. The dry air can cause the wreath to dry out and disintegrate more quickly. Therefore, it is essential to keep the wreath moist and treated with an anti-desiccant spray to help retain moisture.

To ensure your artificial wreath lasts as long as possible, it is recommended to keep it in a cool place, out of direct sunlight. Storing it flat or hanging it temporarily before displaying it can also help maintain its shape. Additionally, fluffing up the branches and ensuring any decorative elements are visible can give your wreath a refreshed look each season.

Proper storage: Store flat or hang temporarily to avoid crushing

To keep your artificial wreath looking its best for longer, proper storage is key. The best way to store your wreath is to either store it flat or hang it temporarily to avoid crushing.

If you want to store your wreath flat, make sure it is stored somewhere cool and dry, so the greenery doesn't dry out and crumble. An unheated conservatory, garage, or garden shed is ideal. If you don't have access to any of these, you could try storing it under a piece of furniture, such as a patio table, to keep it sheltered and undisturbed.

Alternatively, you can hang your wreath temporarily to avoid crushing it. This could be done by hanging it on a door or wall, or even placing it on a table as temporary outdoor decor. If you don't have space to hang it at home, you could also consider hanging it at the front door or on a wall as soon as you get it, to show off your handiwork and avoid the problem of storing it!

If you are storing your wreath in a loft or small space, make sure to revive it before displaying it by fluffing up its branches and ensuring any decorations are visible.

Timing: Hang with other decorations or up to two weeks before Christmas

If you're eager to get your Christmas decorations up, or you're simply wondering when is the best time to hang your wreath, read on for some advice on timing.

The timing of hanging your wreath depends on whether it's artificial or fresh, and whether you're hanging it inside or outdoors. If you're hanging a fresh wreath outdoors, you can expect it to last up to eight weeks. So, if you hang your wreath on 1 December, it should last through Christmas. In warmer climates, a wreath ordered around 1 December should last through Christmas with proper care, and can even stay fresh into the middle of January.

If you're hanging a fresh wreath inside, it will likely only last a couple of weeks. However, there are some steps you can take to extend its lifespan. Firstly, keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Secondly, mist or spritz it with water regularly. You can also cover it with a plastic bag at night to retain moisture.

If you're hanging an artificial wreath, the timing is really up to you. You might want to hang it up at the same time as your other decorations, or around two weeks before Christmas. If you're hanging it up with other decorations, consider packing it away last so that it's easily accessible for next year.

Maintenance: Fluff branches and mist with water to revive and maintain freshness

To revive and maintain the freshness of your artificial Christmas wreath, you'll need to fluff its branches and mist it with water. This process will help your wreath look fuller and more natural, giving it a realistic thickness. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving this:

Step 1: Choose a Starting Point

Decide whether you want to start from the top or the bottom of your wreath. Starting at the bottom gives you more space to work, especially if your wreath comes in sections. Either way, choose a specific branch and work systematically, moving around and up or down the wreath.

Step 2: Separate the Branches

Focus on each branch, separating any clumped-together sub-branches. Fan them out, creating a feathered or fanned shape. Imagine mimicking the natural shape of an evergreen tree's branches. This action will help cover the internal framework and add depth to your wreath.

Step 3: Straighten Any Bent Branches

Correct any branches that are unnaturally bent or pointing in a strange direction. Straighten them out, ensuring they stand perpendicular to the branch they're on. If your wreath's branches have a hinge, refer to the instructions to angle them correctly – usually upward or downward, slanting towards the trunk.

Step 4: Mist with Water

After you've fluffed the branches, it's time to mist your wreath with water. This step will help maintain its freshness. Use a spray bottle filled with water and lightly mist the wreath, ensuring you don't soak it.

By following these steps, you'll be able to revive and maintain the freshness of your artificial Christmas wreath. It's worth noting that the first time you fluff your wreath, it might take a while, but subsequent years will be quicker and easier. Additionally, wearing gloves and long sleeves during this process can protect your hands and arms from any sharp edges on the wreath.

Location: Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent premature drying

When storing your artificial wreath, it's important to avoid direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent premature drying. Here are some tips to ensure your wreath stays in good condition:

Firstly, choose a storage location that is cool and dry. Basements, attics, garages, or unheated conservatories can be ideal spots, as they are usually shielded from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. If you decide to store your wreath in a garage or attic, make sure it is placed away from windows or other sources of direct sunlight.

Secondly, consider using a storage container that blocks light and protects your wreath from dust and debris. Clear plastic storage bins with secure lids are a great option, as they allow you to see the contents while keeping the wreath clean and intact. You can also use cardboard boxes, but make sure they are not placed in direct sunlight, as this can cause the box to warm up and potentially damage the wreath.

Additionally, you can utilise hanging storage options to maximise space and prevent crushing. Install hooks or nails on walls or rafters to hang your wreaths, ensuring they are shielded from direct sunlight. Alternatively, invest in a rolling rack with hangers, which can be easily moved around and provide a mobile storage solution.

By following these tips, you can effectively avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, ensuring your artificial wreath remains in good condition for future use.

Frequently asked questions