Spruce Up Your Mantel with Tiny Tannenbaums
First, choose your vessel. Dig through your cupboards or go thrifting for tiny tree stands—petite flower pots, mugs, bowls or ramekins. (Another option: Order something inexpensive online, like a dozen wooden egg cups.)
Next, cut a floral foam brick into a cone shape with a flattish top and a base that will nestle snugly in your tree stand. Soak the foam in water until saturated, then set in stand. Starting from the top, poke fresh plant clippings into the foam, creating a pine-tree shape. Water as needed for freshness.
Snip sprigs from your backyard evergreens, ask for discarded clippings at a tree farm or greenhouse, or visit a florist for specialty varieties. Here are a few of our go-to varieties.
Russian Sage
Silver-gray stems seem to shimmer in winter gardens and seasonal arrangements.
Juniper
Breathe in (ahh) the pine scent of Grey Guardian and 'Sea Green' juniper.
Boxwood
Even when cut, the glossy leaves hold their bright green color and shine.
Myrtle
When rubbed, myrtle's leaves have an aroma similar to eucalyptus.
