Growing houseplants is a fulfilling hobby all on its own, but if you’re looking for a new way to expand on it, why not try creating your own living wreath? Living wreaths are beautiful to look at, and knowing that you made it yourself is so fulfilling. You’ll save yourself a lot of money on the cost of purchasing a living wreath that has been made by someone else. Best of all, you can get a group of friends or family together and make it a group activity.

First, you will want to make sure you have all the supplies you will need on hand.

Wire form for living wreaths
Sphagnum moss
Greening pins (a.k.a. ferning pins, U-pins or pole pins)
Cuttings of your plants of choice
Gardening gloves
A dibbler or other pointed tool for making holes

Set up your work area; working outdoors will help save on cleanup. If you will be crafting indoors, simply spread newspaper over your workspace. Put on your gardening gloves and let the fun begin!

Dampen your sphagnum moss with tepid water. You can dip it into a bowl or sink and then squeeze out any excess. Push the dampened moss into the frame, filling it so that it there isn’t room for more. If you are having a difficult time getting the moss to stay put, fishing line may be wrapped around the wreath for added security.

Once your base is assembled, it is time to add your plants. Succulents are usually recommended because they do well in dryer conditions and often grow quite slowly, saving you maintenance down the road. You may also use fragrant or edible herbs, ivies, or even flowering plants. Whichever you choose, keep in mind the way the plant will look once it is established: leaves and flowers will want to reach upward.

Use your dibbler or a similar tool to make a small hole in the sphagnum moss. The hole should be just deep enough to place a cutting or two inside. Push the moss snugly around the cuttings once they have been fitted. Continue this all the way around your wreath until it is evenly covered. You don’t need the entire wreath to be hidden by plant material because, of course, it will fill in as it grows. Use the greening pins to help secure the plants that need it, especially ivy.

Your wreath can be hung on a wall or used as a centerpiece on a table. You’ll want to carefully water it occasionally, though it should just be moistened, not wet. It may be easier to do this if you take it off the wall first! Prune your wreath as needed and enjoy the compliments it is sure to draw.