Volunteers Bring Holiday Cheer to Minnetrista
It’s beginning to look a lot like . . . winter! Yes, the holiday season is upon us. Throughout Minnetrista, volunteers and staff are hanging ornaments, lighting trees, and generally decking the halls. Horticulture would be in a pickle without the talented people who have donated their time to help decorate during these past two weeks. This article is devoted to their tips for creating holiday ambiance.
A finished display
Holiday Decorating Tips from the Staff:
“Holiday greenery looks great but can dry out quickly in a warm environment. To keep indoor greenery fresh, mist it daily and expect it to last for about two weeks. Outdoor greenery can last up to a month. In my experience, spruce boughs are top performers against cold dry conditions.” – Elaine Vidal, Gardener
“Keep poinsettias out of reach of children and animals, as they are mildly toxic. To keep them blooming longer, avoid over-watering and move them to a cooler room (between 50-60 degrees) at night.” – Brian, Volunteer
“Paper snowflakes can be hung with thread or ribbons. To make them, fold a square of paper two or three times and then cut out holes in interesting shapes. Delicate designs can be glued to a backing of tissue or colored paper.” – Liz, Volunteer
“Some of the remains of the summer garden can be nice in the winter as decorations. I like: bare seed heads from Blackeyed Susans, coneflowers, and beebalm. Even bare branches from crape myrtles with a few stray berries and dead leaves. Grassy stalks. Kind of Addams Family, but there it is.” – Frank, Volunteer
“Origami shapes make great DIY holiday ornaments. You can use foil origami paper or regular construction paper to fold cranes, balloons, trees and stars.” – Jayne, Volunteer
“Don’t be afraid to try something different. Make your display unique!” – Anson, Gardener
Jayne and Elaine mix natural materials with a few stone-bought ornaments (photo by Liz Macklin)
We hope these ideas jump start your imagination as you are preparing for the holidays. For more inspiration, take a walk around Minnetrista. How will YOU decorate for the season?
Ball State Volunteers decorate wreaths
