If you're looking for an alternative to the foraged Christmas wreath, swap your spruce and learn how to make a succulent wreath to bring a new festive tradition into your household this year.
Living wreaths are pretty stunning and sure to be a talking point for any guests. What's more, if you prep and care for your succulent wreath properly, yours could last for up to six glorious weeks. Whether yours will act as a centerpiece for the Christmas table, your mantel or if you'll be hanging your DIY Christmas wreath at the front of your house for all to see, it's sure to bring character and interest to your seasonal display.
How to make a succulent wreath: 5 steps
How many succulents you use comes down to personal preference mostly, for this DIY we've used twelve. Sandra from Flying Flowers notes, 'Succulents come in all shapes and sizes so the number needed is dependent on the style you’re going for. For an outdoor wreath only use hardy succulents many varieties will not withstand frost or cold. Your local florist or garden centre will be able to help you choose. Fill in any gaps between each plant with a little green moss to finish off your wreath.' However big or small you go with your design, it's sure to look great solo or when paired with a homemade Christmas wreath using foliage and the like for a more traditional look.
You will need:
- 12 plants – if you are going to be keeping your wreath indoors, perhaps next to a DIY advent calendar, then choose a selection of succulents and for outdoor wreaths use some hardy alpine plants like Sedum or Sempervivum.
- Moss
- Oasis ring
- Florist wire
- Wire cutters
- Pins
1. Prepare the moss and ring
Starts by soaking the moss in water which will make it easier to work with and then cover the oasis ring with it completely. Pressing gently to help secure it.
2. Add your succulents
Remove your plants from their pots and start placing these one by one into the oasis ring, securing with pins as you go. Try alternating the types of plants for maximum visual impact.
3. Secure everything
Add a few extra pins to secure your moss around the succulents or alpines, making sure you’ve pushed these firmly into the moss, soil and foam so everything stays in place. To make your wreath extra secure, wrap florist's wire around it to reduce any movement.
4. Add any final touches
Add some finishing touches to fill any gaps – pine cones or red berries are great for adding a festive touch. Have a think about where you'll hang your wreath and go from there.
5. Care for your succulent wreath
If you’ve opted for an indoor wreath using succulents, make sure it looks its best by watering it once a week. You can do this by soaking your oasis ring in water and using a misting spray if required. For outdoor alpines, depending on position, mist if and when required to keep plants looking fresh.
How long will a succulent wreath last?
Sandra comments, 'If you prep your wreath correctly and allow the wreath to rest for at least 6 weeks so that the roots can anchor into the wreath frame, you should be able to get at least one year of life out of your beautiful design. If you don’t have the patience to wait 6 weeks for the roots to establish, secure each succulent with some florist wire.'
'However, with the right care, some can get between 2-5 years of life from their wreath if properly maintained.'
How long will a succulent wreath stay fresh?
'As mentioned before, you should get at least a year out of your wreath. However, the succulents will be live within your wreath and continue to grow. Once they become overgrown it’s important to prune your wreath by cutting the excess. The cuttings and new plants that spring from them can be used to plant a new wreath frame.'
'Enhance your wreath's freshness by watering once a week, in winter only once a month. To do this, place the entire wreath in about an inch of water and leave to soak for 10 minutes. After that time allow it to drain before you re-hang it. This will keep your wreath fresher for longer.'