In our video, I talk about those five key things that you can explore to make your Christmas wreaths truly sustainable this year. I believe changing one ot=r all of those things will really make all the difference to creating planet friendly florals.

There were 5 questions we ended up asking ourselves when we were seeking to create even more sustainable wreaths:

• What do you use to create your mechanics? 

Obviously no plastic or floral foam here but we’re exploring different bases that can fully compost and that can still provide a good base for wreath making. And even if you wish to use traditional copper wreath rings, perhaps there is an opportunity to have a conversation with your customers about them reusing their rings for next year, even if they send them back to you. There’s even options to avoid any floristry wire and still create beautiful wreaths with movement and texture.

• How do you source your Greenery?

I love the texture of pine and spruce and absolutely adore the scent of eucalyptus. You may have an established supply of greenery but can you find them locally? We’ve found a local Christmas tree farm which is perfect for off cuts of spruce.

• Do you grow or know locally flower growers who have garden grown materials?

At this time of year, there is some really beautiful and scented garden foliage that can be used. There’s a huge advantage in seeking your local sustainable foliage. As well as having an already very low carbon footprint, every locally grown stem will have a unique feeling for the area and very much a “bringing the outside in” for the wreaths you are creating.

• Have you grown any dried everlasting flowers?

There are flower growers up and down the country in the UK. All around the world, there is an increasing interested in using dried and everlasting material 

• How to keep your wreath well into the new year.

Since you have created your wreath, you do want it to look its best for as long as possible.

If you have been making wreaths for some years, then it’s sometimes tricky to change old habits. It takes time, energy and research to find more sustainable alternatives. I do think it it so worth it though, as I believe that each of us can make a difference individually to helping the environment.

Starting with Christmas wreaths, I do have a listen to the practical steps that you can explore to craft a really beautiful, seasonal Christmas wreath which is 100% biodegradable.