Growing Green

By Robin Trott, Extension Educator

Decorating for the winter season can go in many different directions; blown up snowman, holiday lights, garlands, wreaths and more. Using NTFP, or non-timber forest products, is another option to consider. Mother Nature provides so many beautiful items that can be harvested and used in our outdoor and indoor décor. The list of NTFP will vary depending on availability and what is growing in your area.

Red-twigged Dogwood, birch branches and twigs, American bittersweet and, of course, balsam boughs are just a few that can safely be harvested in moderation. Many of these products can also be purchased from local retailers whose suppliers are required to purchase a permit and follow certain harvesting requirements if taken from state land.  For property owners, I’d encourage you to look at your property and see what you have readily available. Also, use proper pruning techniques so that you are not detracting from the overall appearance of your plants.

Did you know that winterberry is Minnesota’s native holly? This bright red berry is festive in holiday designs. However, if winterberry is unavailable, look for the bright red seed heads of sumac. Keep in mind some may have an allergic reaction to the sumac, so wear gloves when harvesting. In addition, some berries are toxic, so use caution in homes where there are children or pets.

In addition to cutting balsam boughs, other evergreen species boughs can be harvested to use in wreaths, swags, or even containers. Harvesting a little of several species creates a beautiful array of color and texture. Spruce branches, junipers and pines can all be harvested for holiday decorations.

Balsam boughs are a $20 million industry in Minnesota, with approximately 4,300 tons of boughs harvested annually. If you plan to harvest for more than just yourself, or you plan to harvest on public land, you should look into the permit requirements from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Keeping our surroundings looking natural rather than pruned or mangled is critical for us all.

Here are some tips for keeping greenery fresh:

1) Use a clean, sharp tool to cut the branches and immediately place them into water.

2) Keep greenery out of sunlight.

3) Soak the greenery in water overnight before arranging.

4) Keep arrangements, wreaths, or garland in a cool location until use.

5) Keep arrangements away from any heat source.

6) Continue to water arrangement if possible (i.e. those arranged in wet floral foam, or in a container of water).

7) Check moisture levels in the greenery by bending to check flexibility.

8) Dispose of, and compost material once arrangement has become dry.

Get creative this holiday season and use the non-timber forest products in your backyard or woodland to create a one-of a kind display. Happy holidays!