{"id":3387,"date":"2024-01-19T05:36:51","date_gmt":"2024-01-19T13:36:51","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/2025\/12\/10\/9-plants-to-forage-for-natural-christmas-decorations\/"},"modified":"2025-12-10T05:22:46","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T13:22:46","slug":"9-plants-to-forage-for-natural-christmas-decorations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/?p=3387","title":{"rendered":"9 Plants to Forage For Natural Christmas Decorations"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"entry-content mvt-content\">\n<style><![CDATA[img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:58.88671875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:66.2%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:83.8%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:66.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:149.92503748126%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:67.2%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:66.7%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-16::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-16{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-17::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-17{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-18::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-18{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-19::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-19{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-20::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-20{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-21::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-21{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-22::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-22{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-23::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-23{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-24::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-24{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-25::before{padding-top:80.17578125%; }img#mv-trellis-img-25{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-26::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-26{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-27::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-27{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-28::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-28{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-29::before{padding-top:68.3%; }img#mv-trellis-img-29{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-30::before{padding-top:55.9%; }img#mv-trellis-img-30{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-31::before{padding-top:149.70760233918%; }img#mv-trellis-img-31{display:block;}]]><\/style>\n<div class=\"dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden\" style=\"display: none;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1-150x150.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1.jpg\" data-pin-description=\"Did someone say free Christmas decor? Grab a pair of pruners and head out and forage your own natural Christmas decorations. \" class=\"skip-lazy a3-notlazy no-lazyload dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-inner  dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-single\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"603\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='603'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20603'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8093 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-1024x603.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-1024x603.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-735x433.jpg 735w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-335x197.jpg 335w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-347x204.jpg 347w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-520x306.jpg 520w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-640x377.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-768x452.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-960x566.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-1080x636.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature-720x424.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/wild-christmas-plants-feature.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>It\u2019s the most wonderful time of the year, or so the song goes. I tend to agree. Christmas and the holiday season are my favorite time of year. I love decorating my home with outdoor Christmas plants and making it festive and welcoming.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-for-me-using-foraged-plants-has-been-a-part-of-christmas-decorations-for-as-long-as-i-can-remember\">For me, using foraged plants has been a part of Christmas decorations for as long as I can remember.<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"662\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='662'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20662'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A pine garland hangs on a white picket fence. The garland has snow and red bells on it.\" class=\"wp-image-8091 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-768x508.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-720x477.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>An evergreen garland is easy to make if you\u2019ve got plenty of pine on your property.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If any of you have read my bio, you\u2019ll know I spent my weekends growing up on my dad\u2019s off-the-grid homestead. <\/p>\n<p>I remember one December, Dad and I put on our snow boots and winter gear, Dad grabbed his saw, and we hiked up into the woods.<\/p>\n<p>It had been snowing all week, and the forest looked like something from a Christmas card. Everything was covered in pillowy mounds of white, green from pines peeked out here and there. And red seemed to pop out in the most unexpected places. A cardinal in the brambles, a tiny spray of wintergreen berries, bright red winterberries; it was beautiful.<\/p>\n<p>Dad said he wanted to show me something, so we hiked up to the heart of our piece of the forest, and there in a clearing was a stand of about a dozen trees. Christmas trees \u2013 all balsam fir in a forest filled with eastern white pine. They lined up perfectly in three rows. The trees were filled with noisy chickadees and cardinals. It was so strange and beautiful.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"838\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='838'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20838'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Female cardinal perched on a snowy pine bough. American bittersweet vine growing through the tree.\" class=\"wp-image-8069 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree-300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree-768x644.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bird-tree-720x603.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>It\u2019s no wonder we decorate with red and green when Mother Nature does the same.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Dad said the only thing he could think to explain it was back when this piece of land had been farmland, someone must have had the idea to plant the trees for themselves.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-in-the-end-we-left-them-right-there-that-little-christmas-tree-plot-was-just-too-pretty-and-wild-now-to-touch\">In the end, we left them right there. That little Christmas tree plot was just too pretty and wild now to touch.<\/h3>\n<p>We came home with dad dragging a scrawny and oddly shaped white pine behind him, and me with armfuls of winterberry branches and my pockets loaded with pine cones.<\/p>\n<p>And just like Charlie Brown\u2019s tree, once we decorated our little tree, it was quite beautiful. The log cabin had sprays of evergreen bows, winterberries, and pine cones tucked everywhere I could stuff them. Even without electric Christmas lights, it was gorgeous.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-if-ever-there-was-a-time-of-year-to-bring-nature-indoors-it-s-at-christmas-use-these-festive-outdoor-christmas-plants\">If ever there was a time of year to bring nature indoors, it\u2019s at Christmas. Use these festive outdoor Christmas plants.<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Evergreen boughs and pine cones dusted with snow.\" class=\"wp-image-8070 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-boughs-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Evergreen is a sign of hope and life during dark winter months.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When the days are short and nights are long and dark, it\u2019s nice to be reminded that living things are still growing and thriving. When I was young and broke, gathering natural decorations was one of the only ways I could afford to decorate for Christmas. And these days, while you\u2019d be hard-pressed to make me give up my twinkle lights, I still love bringing outdoor Christmas plants inside for the holidays.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve put together a list of outdoor Christmas plants that can easily be found and used to brighten your home for the coming holidays. You can find many in your backyard or a field or the woods.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-evergreens\">1. Evergreens<\/h2>\n<p>Not only will boughs of evergreen brighten your holiday home, but they\u2019ll also perfume the air with their wonderful scent. Pine, spruce, fir, cedar, hemlock; you name it, these lovely trees are incredibly easy to find. You probably have one growing in your yard right now. Or keep an eye out on your next hike. It\u2019s easy enough to grab a branch or two for decorating.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Pine branches, twine and scissors are laid out on a table next to pine cones and cotton.\" class=\"wp-image-8071 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-natural-decorations-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>One of the cheapest and easiest plants to decorate with are evergreens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you purchase a Christmas tree at a cut-your-own Christmas tree farm, always ask for the bottom branches that they trim off. Because most folks aren\u2019t interested in these leftovers, Christmas tree farms usually have giant piles of branches free for the asking. Be sure and grab a few branches from different types of trees for a variety of evergreens to decorate with.<\/p>\n<p>Tuck a sprig of pine here and there. If you have a mantle, layer it with pine boughs, pine cones, and sprigs of holly or rosehips. Put a few pine branches on a bookshelf, above a doorway, or arrange them on your dining room table.<\/p>\n<p>Make a kissing ball, not to be confused with mistletoe. Evergreen kissing balls have been around for centuries. And while they\u2019re pretty spendy to purchase, they\u2019re incredibly easy and cheap to make.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\" an evergreen kissing ball hangs in front of a large pine tree outside in the snow.\" class=\"wp-image-8072 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-kissing-ball-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Make a pine cone studded kissing ball to hang on your porch or in your hallway.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you have access to plenty of branches, make some evergreen garland to hang in your home or even outside along the porch or a fence. The smell alone is worth the time it takes to make one.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A mantlepiece is decorated with white Christmas decorations. An evergreen garland is hung from the mantlepiece. \" class=\"wp-image-8074 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-garland-mantel-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Save those Christmas tree scraps to make evergreen garland.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Of course, there\u2019s always the tried and true evergreen wreath. This classic holiday staple is easily made with only a few branches of your favorite evergreens.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='665'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20665'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"An evergreen wreath is hanging in front of a door. \" class=\"wp-image-8073 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-evergreen-wreath-720x479.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Evergreen wreaths can be as simple or as complex as you wish. It\u2019s all about your personal style and creativity.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-holly\">2. Holly<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close-up of holly berries and leaves. Holly is a wild Christmas plant.\" class=\"wp-image-8075 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Nothing says \u201cChristmas\u201d like holly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Holly is yet another plant that immediately calls to mind the Christmas season. Even in the middle of summer, when you see the beautiful dark green leaves and bright red berries, it\u2019s hard not to think, \u201cChristmas.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Bring this beautiful evergreen into your home for the holidays in much the same way you would any other evergreen. You can use branches of holly or sprigs of holly in all of your decorating and Christmas crafts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"667\" height=\"1000\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='667'%20height='1000'%20viewBox='0%200%20667%201000'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A wreath made of holly hangs on a door.\" class=\"wp-image-8076 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-wreath.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-wreath.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-wreath.jpg 667w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-wreath-200x300.jpg 200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 667px) 100vw, 667px\"><figcaption>You could skip the pine and make a wreath entirely out of holly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you don\u2019t have access to holly, may I suggest planting a bush in your yard somewhere? Holly can be grown nearly anywhere, and you can keep it trimmed into well-behaved shrubs or grow a holly tree as tall as your house. Of course, the latter could take some time.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close-up of holly berries covered in snow.\" class=\"wp-image-8077 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-holly-snow-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>If only I could bring the snow inside too\u2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-mistletoe\">3. Mistletoe<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"672\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='672'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20672'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A couple kissing under mistletoe outside.\" class=\"wp-image-8078 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss-300x202.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss-768x516.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-kiss-720x484.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Mistletoe goes hand in hand, or rather smooch in smooch with Christmas.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Oh mistletoe, this beautiful little plant has such an interesting history. You can read about its ties to Christmas and other traditional Christmas plants and their stories here.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you love hanging about the mistletoe or loath it, you can\u2019t deny the long history of mistletoe\u2019s Christmas connection. If you\u2019re in the kissing camp, decorating with mistletoe is a must.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A tree infested with clusters of mistletoe which is a wild Christmas plant.\" class=\"wp-image-8080 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-in-tree-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Mistletoe grows on many species of trees.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Did you know that mistletoe is a parasitic plant? Yup, it grows in large clusters in healthy trees and taps into the tree itself, feeding off of the tree\u2019s nutrients. You can find traditional mistletoe growing from trees nearly anywhere in the eastern United States and Canada. However, in the western states and up into southern Canada, you\u2019ll find the dwarf version of the mistletoe we all know and loath. I mean love.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019ve got your heart set on real mistletoe, but it\u2019s nowhere to be found where you live, may I suggest purchasing some from a winter farmer\u2019s market or an Etsy seller. Don\u2019t forget to add a few sprigs to your evergreen kissing balls.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Wrapped bunches of mistletoe for sale.\" class=\"wp-image-8079 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-15\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-mistletoe-bunch-720x480.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>If you buy mistletoe at the farmer\u2019s market, should you kiss the farmer?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Maybe this year, place your mistletoe someplace unexpected, like in the car or hanging in the pantry door.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-eastern-red-cedar-or-juniper\">4. Eastern red cedar or Juniper<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close up of eastern red cedar berries\/branch.\" class=\"wp-image-8081 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-16\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Not every Christmas decoration has to be red or green.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>There\u2019s so much more to Christmas than red and green. This festive season demands all the colors of the wild outdoors be enjoyed. And to that end, I\u2019d like to bring your attention to the eastern red cedar. This native to the states bursts forth in the loveliest junipers every 2-3 years once it reaches cone-bearing age.<\/p>\n<p>As I was driving down the highway the other day, I couldn\u2019t help but notice cedar tree after cedar tree weighed down in a shroud of blue and green. Tiny little blue-gray berries covered the branches.<\/p>\n<p>Naturally, you can decorate with all junipers, as they produce such lovely berries. I just chose the eastern red cedar as it\u2019s what grows near me.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close-up of eastern red cedar berries, a good option for decorating with wild Christmas plants.\" class=\"wp-image-8083 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-17\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-eastern-red-cedar-2.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>Branches studded with juniper berries make a beautiful addition to your Christmas wreath. And eastern red cedar (which is actually a juniper, <em>Juniperus virginiana<\/em>) berries are edible. I wouldn\u2019t go popping them off the tree and into my mouth; they certainly aren\u2019t that kind of edible.<\/p>\n<p>But you can use them as you would any edible juniper \u2013 to season meat and broth. And, of course, to make gin. Give this easy homemade infused gin recipe a try from Colleen at Grow Cook Forage Ferment. You\u2019ll have the perfect winter spirit for Christmas cocktails.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A mason jar filled with botanicals and vodka to make homemade infused gin. A gold Christmas bauble is next to the jar.\" class=\"wp-image-8082 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-18\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-gin.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Save some eastern red cedar berries (junipers) to make your own holiday infused gin.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>(As with any foraging for wild edibles, it\u2019s on you to properly identify your plants, this information is provided for educational purposes only. Not all juniper berries are edible, do your due diligence.)<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-winterberry\">5. Winterberry<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Winterberries growing in a park.\" class=\"wp-image-8084 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-19\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Winterberry is a holly species that makes the perfect winter decoration with it\u2019s branches of bright berries.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>There is something almost magical about walking in a snowy field and spying these bright, red berries. Winterberry just begs to be brought indoors. The bright red berries on dark branches look wonderful against white walls or in minimalist settings.<\/p>\n<p>Winterberry is a type of holly, but it loses its leaves in the winter, allowing the showy red berries to take center stage. The berries hang on to those branches pretty good, too, making them an ideal indoor decoration that will last through the season.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close-up photo of winterberries.\" class=\"wp-image-8085 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-20\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-closeup.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Winterberries, plump and shiny in the fall, still look beautiful as they dry throughout the winter.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Whenever I decorate with winterberry, I keep it throughout the winter, long after the Christmas decorations have been put away. The cheery red berries make me smile whenever I pass them.<\/p>\n<p>Along with being the perfect addition to a wreath, winterberry branches look beautiful tucked into your Christmas tree.<\/p>\n<p>Winterberry tends to grow in marshy, open fields. Keep an eye out for it before the snow falls and come back to it when it\u2019s time to decorate. Of course, you can always choose to plant it in your garden or yard as well. It\u2019s a great landscaping option.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-rose-hips\">6. Rose Hips<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Pine needles and tiny rose hips in a basket of red and green.\" class=\"wp-image-8086 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-21\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-basket.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Foraging for your Christmas decorations is a wonderful way to make new memories.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Most folks don\u2019t think of Christmas when they think of rose hips, but they should. These lovely red-orange berries make a wonderful addition to any Christmas centerpiece, mantlepiece, or wreath. And if you\u2019ve got roses growing in your garden, they\u2019re easy enough to come by.<\/p>\n<p>I prefer the tiny sprays of rose hips that can be found on the invasive multiflora rose. These plants are not native to the states and often crowd out native plant life. So, picking the rose hips and using them in my house is my way of helping to control them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Closeup of multiflora rose hips.\" class=\"wp-image-8087 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-22\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-plants-rosehip.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Foraging for multiflora rosehips is easy in the fall. Their bright red rosehips are easy to spot among all the brown.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Plus, their tiny size and the way they grow in bunches naturally lends them to use in decorating.<\/p>\n<p>No matter what type of roses you have access to, I hope you\u2019ll add some festive rose hips to your holiday decorations this year.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-oriental-bittersweet\">7. Oriental Bittersweet<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Closeup of oriental bittersweet berries.\" class=\"wp-image-8088 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-23\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-closeup.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>The petals surrounding the Oriental bittersweet berry are yellow-gold, whereas the American bittersweet petals are a vivid orange.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Another beautiful plant you can find easily is Oriental bittersweet. This common vine is easily spotted in the fall once the leaves have fallen from the trees. Its bright orange-red clusters of berries make it easy to find.<\/p>\n<p>Again, Oriental Bittersweet is an invasive species that is a real problem here in the states. Harvesting it for decoration is a good way to keep those berries out of the soil. Just be sure to properly dispose of it at the end of the season by burning it.<\/p>\n<p>There is also an American Bittersweet, which many invasive plants threaten, including the Oriental Bittersweet. But they\u2019re easy to tell apart.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Oriental bittersweet vine growing in a field with the sky in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-8089 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-24\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-bittersweet.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>The invasive plant has berries that grow all along a smooth vine, whereas the native American bittersweet has berries only at the tips of its vines and blunt thorns along the vines.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re going to use bittersweet, be sure to pick only the invasive oriental species.<\/p>\n<p>Because it\u2019s a vine, you can make wreaths from it, much like you would from woody grapevines. Bittersweet is another plant that\u2019s perfect for tucking into your Christmas tree here and there.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-grapevines\">8. Grapevines<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"821\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='821'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20821'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Six grapevine wreathes in assorted sizes.\" class=\"wp-image-7241 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-25\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-1024x821.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-1024x821.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-735x589.jpg 735w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-335x269.jpg 335w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-347x278.jpg 347w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-520x417.jpg 520w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-640x513.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-768x616.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-960x770.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-1080x866.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-300x241.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths-720x577.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/how-to-make-grapevine-wreaths.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Rural Sprout writer, Cheryl Magyar, made these gorgeous grapevine wreaths. You can learn how too.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>While grapevines aren\u2019t particularly showy on their own, and you may not think of them as an obvious Christmas plant, they make the perfect base for adornment. And you can find them nearly anywhere.<\/p>\n<p>Our own Cheryl wrote a whole post on how to make grapevine wreaths. She walks you through the entire process and tells you what tools you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n<p>Check it out and get started today. You\u2019ll have plenty of wreaths ready to decorate. You could even give wreaths as gifts to friends and neighbors if you\u2019ve got access to especially unruly grapevines.<\/p>\n<p>Or use the vines to give structure and shape to evergreen garlands or fashion star-shaped ornaments out of them. Grapevines are a versatile plant that can be used in so many different ways to decorate for Christmas.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-pine-cones\">9. Pine Cones<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A basket of pine cones in the woods.\" class=\"wp-image-7259 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-26\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pine-cones-foraged.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>Pine trees and pine cones go hand in hand. And I can\u2019t think of a better free and natural crafting resource than the pine cones that litter the ground underneath pine trees. Grab a basket and gather as many pine cones as you can.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A child's hand holds a gold painted pinecone. Several other pine cone ornaments lay on a wooden table.\" class=\"wp-image-7681 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-27\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-ornaments.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>These are just the tip of the iceberg, wait until you see the penguin pine cone ornaments and the pine cone Christmas elves.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Then come back here and check out my post about using pine cones for Christmas decorations.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"A decorative display of pine cones, candles, Christmas ornaments, and glasses.\" class=\"wp-image-7685 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-28\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/pine-cone-vignette-1.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>I love making Christmas vignettes with pine cones and some of my antique glassware.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>You\u2019ll have enough ideas to use every pine cone in your basket.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps you have a favorite outdoor Christmas plant that grows nearby and comes into your home for the holidays? Decorating with what grows close to home is meaningful and adds experience and memories along with the act of decking the halls. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8090 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-29\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket-768x525.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/wild-xmas-winterberry-basket-720x492.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-as-you-fill-your-homes-with-christmas-cheer-and-prepare-for-the-holidays-this-year-it-s-my-wish-that-you-find-peace-rest-and-health-in-this-coming-season\">As you fill your homes with Christmas cheer and prepare for the holidays this year, it\u2019s my wish that you find peace, rest, and health in this coming season.<\/h3>\n<p>Please remember if you are foraging on land that\u2019s not your own, be courteous, and practice good foraging manners. Make sure you have permission to forage there and only take what you need. Leave plenty of the main plant behind to ensure its continued health and growth. Many animals rely on berries in the winter months; be mindful of what you are taking and how much.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-read-next\">Read Next:<\/h3>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"559\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1000'%20height='559'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20559'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8095 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-30\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/christmas-houseplants-feature-720x402.jpg 720w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">12 Christmas Houseplants For A Festive Indoor Garden<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pin-this-for-later\">Pin This For Later<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-pin-description=\"Did someone say free Christmas decorations? \" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='342'%20height='512'%20viewBox='0%200%20342%20512'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8097 perfmatters-lazy\" width=\"342\" height=\"512\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-31\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/NATURAL-CHRISTMAS-1.jpg 735w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<style type=\"text\/css\"><![CDATA[\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-body{font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:11px;color:#000000;background-image:none;background-position:inherit;background-repeat:no-repeat;padding-top:15px;padding-bottom:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-body .privacyPolicy{font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:11px;color:#000000;}\n#af-form-1000191877 {border: 0;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-standards .af-element{padding-left:15px;padding-right:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-quirksMode{padding-left:15px;padding-right:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-header{font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:16px;color:#FFFFFF;border-top-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-bottom-style:none;border-left-style:none;border-width:1px;background-image:url(\"https:\/\/forms.aweber.com\/images\/auto\/body\/888\/888\/222\/222\");background-position:top left;background-repeat:repeat-x;background-color:#222222;padding-left:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-top:9px;padding-bottom:9px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-footer{font-family:Verdana, 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box-sizing: border-box !important;\n}\n\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-footer p {\n  margin: 0 !important;\n}\n#af-form-1000191877 input.submit,\n#af-form-1000191877 #webFormSubmitButton {\n  border: none;\n  border-radius: 3px !important;\n  font-weight: bold;\n  margin-top: 0.5rem !important;\n  margin-bottom: 1rem !Important;\n  padding: 0.6rem 1.5rem !important;\n  -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s;\n          transition-duration: 0.3s;\n  }\n#af-form-1000191877 input.submit:hover,\n#af-form-1000191877 #webFormSubmitButton:hover {\n  cursor: pointer;\n  opacity: 0.8;\n}\n\n#af-form-1000191877 input.text:hover {\n  cursor: pointer;\n  opacity: 0.8;\n}\n\n.poweredBy a,\n.privacyPolicy p {\n  color: #000000 !important;\n  font-size: 0.65rem !important;\n}\n]]><\/style>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"667\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='500'%20height='667'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" class=\"perfmatters-lazy\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/rural-sprout-newsletter.jpg\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 style=\"line-height: 1.2;\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-get-the-famous-rural-sprout-newsletter-delivered-to-your-inbox\">Get the famous Rural Sprout newsletter delivered to your inbox.<\/h2>\n<p style=\"line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 15px;\">Join the 50,000+ gardeners who get timely gardening tutorials, tips and tasks delivered direct to their inbox.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100 has-custom-font-size is-style-fill has-medium-font-size\">\n<form method=\"post\" class=\"af-form-wrapper\" accept-charset=\"UTF-8\" action=\"https:\/\/www.aweber.com\/scripts\/addlead.pl\">\n<div style=\"display: none;\">\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_web_form_id\" value=\"1000191877\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_split_id\" value=\"\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"listname\" value=\"awlist5482536\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"redirect\" value=\"https:\/\/www.aweber.com\/thankyou.htm?m=default\" id=\"redirect_5dcc9fd1e523242cbf5da5d508d386eb\"><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_adtracking\" value=\"endarticle\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_message\" value=\"1\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_required\" value=\"email\"><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"meta_tooltip\" value=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<div id=\"af-form-1000191877\" class=\"af-form\">\n<div id=\"af-body-1000191877\" class=\"af-body af-standards\" style=\"padding:0;\">\n<div class=\"af-element\" style=\"padding-left: 0; padding-right: 0;\">\n\t\t\t\t<label class=\"previewLabel\" for=\"awf_field-116812902\">Email:<\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"af-textWrap\"><input class=\"text\" id=\"awf_field-116812902\" type=\"email\" name=\"email\" value=\"\" tabindex=\"500\" onfocus=\" if (this.value == '') { this.value = ''; }\" onblur=\"if (this.value == '') { this.value='';} \">\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"af-clear\"><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"af-element buttonContainer\" style=\"padding-left: 0; padding-right: 0;\">\n\t\t\t\t<input style=\"margin-bottom: 5px !important; width: 100%; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0px;\" name=\"submit\" class=\"submit\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Sign Me Up! (It\u2019s Free!)\" tabindex=\"501\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"af-clear\"><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"af-element privacyPolicy\" style=\"text-align: center\">\n<p style=\"margin-bottom: 0 !important;\">We respect your email privacy<\/p>\n<div class=\"af-clear\"><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: none;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='0'%20height='0'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"perfmatters-lazy\" data-src=\"https:\/\/forms.aweber.com\/form\/displays.htm?id=jAwMDIycjBzs7A==\"><\/div>\n<\/p><\/form>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s the most wonderful time of the year, or so the song goes. I tend to agree. Christmas and the&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3388,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[127],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3387","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diy-projects"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3387","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3387"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3387\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3404,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3387\/revisions\/3404"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3388"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3387"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3387"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3387"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}