A wreath can be made from much more than traditional fir branches. Foliage, herbs, berries, dried flowers and seasonal plants can all be used to create arrangements that reflect what is available at a particular time of year.

The base determines both the shape and the amount of material required. Willow, grapevine and flexible branches can be formed into a circular structure and left partially visible. Metal rings provide a cleaner outline and are useful when greenery is only attached to part of the wreath.

Fresh foliage creates a fuller appearance. Olive, eucalyptus, bay, rosemary and other sturdy branches can be layered around the base, while berries or flowers introduce smaller areas of colour. Using several types of greenery also creates differences in leaf shape and texture.

Dried materials work differently. Lavender, grasses, seed heads and dried flowers retain their shape for longer and can produce lighter arrangements with less volume. They are particularly useful for wreaths intended to remain indoors for several weeks or months.

The amount of decoration can be adjusted to the setting. A large wreath can fill an otherwise empty front door, while a smaller arrangement works on an interior wall, cupboard or hook. Leaving part of the structure exposed can make the design feel less formal than a completely covered ring.

Seasonality provides an easy way to vary the same idea throughout the year. Spring branches and flowers can replace winter evergreens, herbs and olive foliage suit warmer months and dried grasses, berries and seed heads work well later in the year.

Materials can also come directly from a garden or from cuttings left after pruning. Branches that are too short for a vase may still be useful in a wreath, while herbs and flowers can continue drying after they have been attached.

A simple wreath therefore becomes a practical way of working with plants already available around the home. Its colour, texture and composition can change with the season without changing the underlying principle. 

Inspired to gather more from nature as the seasons change?
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