How to Keep Your Christmas Wreath Fresh for Longer

You’ve just brought home, or made at a workshop... a beautiful Christmas wreath. Its fresh spruce, glossy holly, and pops of festive ribbon bring instant holiday cheer to your doorway. But like any natural arrangement, a wreath needs care.

The question we hear most at our wreath-making workshops in London is: “How long will my wreath last?” With the right care, a fresh wreath can stay lush and vibrant for 3–4 weeks — often right through the festive season.

Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your wreath looking its best, from hydration hacks to placement tips.

How Long Do Fresh Wreaths Last?

Fresh spruce or fir wreaths, when well cared for, typically last 3–4 weeks indoors or outdoors. The exact lifespan depends on:

• Temperature – cooler spots keep foliage fresher

• Humidity – central heating dries foliage faster indoors

• Foliage type – sturdy evergreens like pine and spruce last longer than delicate eucalyptus or ivy

• Care routine – hydration and misting can extend freshness significantly

Dried or artificial wreaths, of course, last much longer, but for that authentic pine-scented Christmas feel, fresh is best.

The longevity of your wreath begins with how it’s made. At Blooms & Evergreen, we use moss-based rings, which act as natural sponges, holding moisture for weeks. Foam-free designs not only reduce plastic waste but also help keep foliage hydrated.

When buying a wreath (or materials for DIY kits), look for:

• Fresh, flexible foliage (not brittle or brown at the edges)

• Secure wiring, so stems aren’t crushed

• A moss or natural base instead of polystyrene foam

Tip 1: Start with a Quality Wreath

Tip 2: Soak Your Wreath Before Hanging

If your wreath has a moss or foam base, give it a good soak before use. Place it face down in a basin or bathtub of cool water for 15–20 minutes. The moss absorbs moisture, hydrating the foliage from the stems up.

Shake gently and allow to drip-dry before hanging to avoid watermarks on doors.

Tip 3: Mist Regularly

Just like a houseplant, wreath foliage appreciates moisture. A quick misting with a spray bottle every 2–3 days helps slow down drying, especially indoors.

Pro tip: Use cool, clean water, and avoid misting directly onto ribbons or dried fruit, which may stain or soften.

Tip 4: Placement Matters

Where you hang your wreath makes a huge difference:

• Outdoors – Fresh wreaths thrive on front doors, where the cool air preserves them.

• Indoors – Central heating dries foliage quickly, so wreaths above fireplaces or radiators fade faster.

• Direct sunlight – Avoid placing wreaths in sun-drenched windows, as heat speeds up drying.

If displaying indoors, consider rotating wreaths: hang outside during the day and bring inside for evening gatherings.

Tip 5: Remove Fading Elements

Over time, some delicate foliage or flowers may wilt before sturdier spruce and pine. Gently remove tired stems and replace them with spares (many DIY kits include extra foliage). This keeps your wreath looking fresh and full throughout the season.

If using fresh flowers (like roses or ranunculus), replace them every few days with wired stems.

Tip 6: Keep Decorations Dry

Wired cones, dried oranges, and ribbons don’t mind moisture in the air, but they don’t like being soaked. If misting, angle your spray bottle toward the foliage only.

If a storm leaves your outdoor wreath soggy, bring it inside to dry naturally at room temperature, never near a heater, which will cause foliage to crisp.

Tip 7: Refresh Mid-Season

If your wreath is on display for more than a month, consider a mid-season refresh. You don’t need to start from scratch, just weave in fresh foliage and replace any dried-out stems.

This quick update will carry your wreath beautifully into New Year celebrations.

Why Fresh Wreaths Are Worth the Care

Some may wonder: why not just buy an artificial wreath that lasts year after year? While they’re convenient, nothing compares to the fragrance and authenticity of a fresh Christmas wreath.

• The scent of spruce and eucalyptus greets guests at the door

• The act of crafting and caring for your wreath connects you to seasonal traditions

• Each wreath is unique, reflecting the moment and the maker

By caring for your wreath, you extend not just its lifespan, but also the joy it brings throughout the season.

Tip 7: Refresh Mid-Season

If your wreath is on display for more than a month, consider a mid-season refresh. You don’t need to start from scratch, just weave in fresh foliage and replace any dried-out stems.

This quick update will carry your wreath beautifully into New Year celebrations.

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With a little care, your Christmas wreath can stay fresh, fragrant, and festive for weeks. Start with a high-quality moss base, soak it before use, mist regularly, and choose the right placement to keep it looking its best.

At Blooms & Evergreen, we love teaching these techniques at our Christmas wreath making workshops in London. Not only do guests leave with a luxury handmade wreath, but they also gain the know-how to keep it looking beautiful right through the holidays.

Because after all, a wreath isn’t just decoration - it’s a symbol of welcome, tradition, and celebration. And with the right care, it becomes part of your home’s festive story all season long.