Diligently, garden furniture has been placed away; gardens cleaned and one last raking of leaves managed just as the first dusting of white flakes fell. Simultaneously, garden centres have supplied information for over-wintering perennials; caring for lawns; informing us of warding off rabbit and voles in our yards, giving guidance on preventing sun scald on trees; and prevention tips of winter rusting on cedars and spruce.
Winter can begin.
What happens with garden centres now? First thought or comment is - "You must close down for the season?" Years ago, this would announce a reprieve in the gardening sector; a welcoming slower pace. For some this occurs, for others this is the beginning of a new season. This is an intermission from gardening in the yard; but is an occasion to create treasured venues for the holiday season ahead, venturing indoors.
Garden centres at this time of year are a destination for holiday shopping. Many re-inventing themselves, becoming more than just the garden centres of past.
Venture through the doors at this time of year and you are welcomed with the ambience of a holiday wonderland. Normal industrial lighting is subdued, allowing the twinkle of ambience lighting to set the mood. Holiday décor comes alive with beautiful trees bountiful in color, character and themes.
Decorated artificial trees take on character in the applications to which they are decorated. Florals, ribbons, branching, and garlands perform dramatic sweeps amongst the first layering stages of the decorating process. Yes, we call it a decorating process as this is what gives your tree a "decorating style". Color themes, or themes by ornament style is the personal choice by you. My advice, try accenting your tree with white cranberries, it’s subtle yet magical!
I’m often asked – "Can I use my some of my ornaments and create a theme?" Absolutely! Themes can be created from anything. By selecting a color theme in forms of floral silks, ribbons, garlands and by choosing a selection of dominant colors. Figuring out a theme? By visiting and looking through the collage of trees you may find one that may complement your home décor. Sometimes, it is that swatch of cloth or the favored toss cushion that sets the theme. Sometimes it is the purpose of the room. Living rooms, more classy and elegant while family rooms bright and whimsical.
Late November into December, garden centres focus on Christmas trees, boughs, garlands and all fresh cut greenery you may desire. The scents of fresh cut trees are reminiscent of a child’s Christmas. Premade, fresh green containers add a welcoming accent to your home’s entrance and wreaths can complete that festive expression, indoor or out.
Searching out the "perfect" Christmas tree is a true family tradition. It may take some time to do your selection so plan to make a day of it and enjoy the experience greenhouses offer this time of year.
People ask me – "Can I decorate a fresh cut tree the same as an artificial tree?" Fresh cut trees come in different styles. Frasier fir, Balsam, Native spruce, Nordman, white spruce to name a few. Softer branching of long needled white spruce favor lighter decorating, while short needled Frasier and Balsam fresh cut trees blend well with adornment.
Every holiday season people always ask me- "How long does it take" to put together our wonderland display. It takes a while, 30 decorated trees can be quite time consuming. However, it’s well worth it when you see how visitors’ faces light up when they walk in. That makes every second spend working all worth it.
So take your time with decorating. Decorate in stages. Dress the outdoors with a welcoming planter accented with a grand red bow; set up and decorate your Christmas tree; accent stair rails with garlands and berries. But most importantly, remember to enjoy the creativity decorating for the holiday’s brings out!
If you’re looking for some inspiration this holiday season we invite you and your family to come check out the amazing displays we have at St. Mary’s Nursery and sip on some hot apple cider while you browse.
