A naturally decoration center piece created with slices of dried citrus, evergreen foliage and candles.
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25 Enchanting Natural Holiday Decorations from Your Garden

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A naturally decoration center piece created with slices of dried citrus, evergreen foliage and candles.

As the holiday season approaches, many of us turn to our gardens for festive natural decorations.

Not only does this approach save money, but it also adds a unique, personal touch to your holiday decor while minimizing environmental impact.

In this article, we’ll explore 25 creative ways to transform your garden’s bounty into stunning holiday decorations that will impress your guests and make your home feel truly magical.

Why Choose Natural Holiday Decorations

By choosing natural decorations from your garden, you’re not only creating unique and beautiful holiday decor, but you’re also making an eco-friendly choice.

These decorations are biodegradable, reduce plastic waste, and often have a lower carbon footprint compared to store-bought synthetic options. 

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Additionally, natural decorations smell wonderful, are cost-effective, and can be reused or composted after the holiday season.

Craft Supplies To Get You Started

Sometimes the best planned garden faces challenges. If you don’t have enough material from your garden for your natural decorations, these supplies can fill in the gap.

Natural Jute Twine String

Mini Hot Glue Gun

Natural Dried Straw Flower

Dried Lavender Bundles

Bulk Package of Natural Pinecones

Natural Grapevine Wreaths

The List: 25 Natural Holiday Decoration Ideas

A hand using a glue gun to attach decorations onto a variety of dried grapevine wreaths. A classic natural decoration.
Classic homemade holiday wreaths.

1. Pine Cone Wreath

Create a rustic and fragrant wreath using pine cones collected from your yard. Arrange them in a circular pattern and secure with wire or hot glue. Add a pop of color with holly berries or a festive ribbon.

2. Citrus Garland

String together dried orange, lemon, and lime slices to form a beautifully scented garland. This decoration not only looks stunning but also fills your home with a refreshing citrus aroma.

3. Evergreen Table Runner

Arrange a variety of evergreen branches down the center of your dining table for an elegant, natural table runner. Intersperse with candles or ornaments for added sparkle.

4. Herb Bouquet Ornaments

Tie small bundles of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage with twine and hang them as fragrant ornaments on your tree or around your home.

5. Twig Star

Collect straight twigs of similar length and arrange them in a star shape, securing the points with twine or wire. Hang on your front door or above the mantel for a rustic touch.

6. Berry Votive Holders

Fill glass jars with water and float cranberries or other small berries around a floating candle for a simple yet elegant centerpiece.

7. Pinecone Fire Starters

Dip pinecones in melted wax and roll in dried herbs or spices. These make beautiful, functional decorations for your fireplace and wonderful gifts.

8. Succulent Wreaths

Create a living wreath using a variety of small succulents arranged in a circular pattern. This eco-friendly decoration can last well beyond the holiday season with proper care.

9. Acorn Candle Holders

Glue acorns around plain glass votives for a natural, textured candle holder that adds warmth to any room.

10. Preserved Leaf Garland

Press and preserve colorful fall leaves, then string them together to create a stunning autumnal garland.

Craft paper wrapped holiday gifts with natural decorations of dried anise, cinnamon sticks, evergreen fronds and twine.
Holiday gifts decorated with dried anise, cinnamon sticks, evergreen fronds, and twine. They would also make great napkin holders.

11. Birch Log Candle Holders

Drill holes in small birch logs to create rustic candle holders for your mantel or dining table.

12. Pomander Balls

Stud oranges with whole cloves in intricate patterns to create fragrant pomander balls. Hang them with ribbon or display in a bowl.

13. Dried Hydrangea Wreath

Preserve hydrangea blooms and arrange them in a circular pattern to create a luxurious, vintage-inspired wreath.

14. Juniper and Rosemary Sachets

Fill small fabric pouches with dried juniper berries and rosemary for aromatic sachets to hang in closets or on doorknobs.

15. Twig Candle Holder

Glue small twigs around a glass hurricane vase to create a woodland-inspired candle holder.

A natural window piece made of a mix of dried leaves, branches and flowers.
A natural decor piece made of a mix of dried leaves, flowers, and fresh evergreen branches.

16. Moss-Covered Letters

Cover wooden letters in preserved moss to spell out festive words like “JOY” or “NOEL” for a unique mantel decoration.

17. Pinecone Elves

Paint pinecones and add felt hats to create whimsical elf decorations for your tree or mantel.

18. Holly Berry Ice Lanterns

Freeze water and holly berries in a mold to create stunning ice lanterns for outdoor entertaining.

19. Dried Flower Ornaments

Press and dry small flowers, then place them in clear glass ornaments for delicate, natural tree decorations.

20. Cinnamon Stick Candles

Tie cinnamon sticks around plain pillar candles with twine or ribbon for a rustic, aromatic decoration.

A table with dried grapevine balls,  pinecones, and candles in glass holders.
A table of assorted natural decorations, including dried grapevine balls, pinecones, and candles in glass holders.

21. Grapevine Ball Lights

Wrap a string of fairy lights around grapevine balls for a magical, twinkling decoration.

22. Acorn Cap Garland

String together acorn caps to create a charming, natural garland for your tree or mantel.

23. Pressed Flower Cards

Create unique holiday cards by pressing flowers from your garden and adhering them to cardstock.

24. Cedar Swag

Create an aromatic swag using cedar branches, pinecones, and ribbon to hang on your front door or above a window.

25. Lavender Wands

Weave dried lavender stems into delicate wands for fragrant ornaments or gifts.

Preserving Your Natural Decorations: Tips for Longevity and Beauty

A Christmas tree decoration with natural elements. Including pinecones, dried tansy and ginger bread ornaments.

To ensure your natural decorations last throughout the holiday season, consider these preservation tips:

  1. Dry flowers and herbs by hanging them upside down in a cool, dry place for several weeks before using.
  2. Spray pinecones and acorns with a clear sealant to prevent sap from leaking. Once they have been sealed, they cannot be composted.
  3. Keep citrus slices in a low-humidity environment to prevent mold growth.

Where to Find Natural Materials for Your Holiday Decorations

Don’t worry if you don’t have these natural materials growing in your garden. There are countless ways to source beautiful elements for your holiday decor

Farmers’ markets and florists often sell seasonal flowers and herbs, which can add an extra touch of nature to your decorations.

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You might also consider visiting craft stores that carry natural materials like dried flowers, moss, and even decorative branches.

Finally, keep an eye out for gifts from nature during your walks. Unwanted fallen branches or acorns can easily be transformed into stunning decorations, making your holiday crafting experience even more special.

Additionally, try exploring local parks, forests, or nature trails where you can gather pine cones, twigs, and seasonal foliage. Make sure to seek permission if necessary, and always practice sustainable foraging by collecting only what you need. 

Final Thoughts

This holiday season, take a walk through your garden and let nature inspire your decorations. The result will be a warm, inviting home filled with the authentic scents and sights of the season.

Share these ideas with friends and family to spread the joy of natural decorating and make a positive impact on the environment. Together, we can create a more sustainable and beautiful holiday season.

Visit the Garden Resources page for supplies and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Calendula’s Garden Newsletter for more gardening tips.

Calendula’s Garden is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, view our Disclaimer page. Thank you!

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