The Willow Connection

Winter Wonderland

JoAnne Lussier

Creating Natural Beauty for All

Winter can be a bleak time for our outdoor spaces. But why not add a touch of nature’s beauty to your trees? Decorating trees with seeds, berries, and fruit ornaments is a fun and eco-friendly way to brighten up your winter landscape for you and the outdoor critters that visit your yard. If you used a live tree for Christmas, consider relocating it onto your porch or somewhere visible until spring. Repurposing this natural element not only serves to extend the tree’s life purpose but will act as shelter for the birds during stormy weather. It’s rather a win-win situation for everyone.

Why Decorate with Natural Elements?

  • Eco-Friendly: Using natural materials reduces waste and promotes sustainability.
  • Attracts Wildlife: Birds and small animals will appreciate the added food source.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing: Natural ornaments can create a beautiful, rustic look.

How to Decorate Your Trees:

  1. Choose Your Ornaments:
    • Seeds: Sunflower seeds, wild birdseed, pumpkin seeds, and pinecones are great options.
    • Berries: Red berries, such as cranberries or holly berries, add a festive touch.
    • Dried Fruit: Slices of oranges, lemons, or apples can be dried and strung together.
    • Peanut Butter: Smear some peanut butter on a pinecone and then roll it in birdseed.
  2. Prepare Your Ornaments:
    • Stringing: Use twine, yarn, or ribbon to string your ornaments together.
    • Tiny Containers: Small cups will hold various seeds.
    • Shallow Dishes: This is ideal for ground-feeding birds and little critters.
  3. Attach to Trees:
    • Wire: Wrap wire around branches and secure your ornaments.
    • Twine: Tie ornaments to branches with twine.
    • Hooks: Use small hooks to hang ornaments from branches.

Tips for Winter Tree Decorating:

  • Consider the Weather: Choose materials that can withstand freezing temperatures and snow.
  • Safety First: Avoid using ornaments that could harm wildlife.
  • Have Fun: Experiment with different combinations of materials and colors.

By adding natural ornaments to your trees, you can create a winter wonderland that is both beautiful and beneficial to the environment.