From Garden to Garland: Plants You Can Grow for Beautiful Christmas Decorations

Nostalgia and personality seem set to be two of the biggest trends this Christmas, with many of us apparently looking back to Christmases past for our design inspiration.  It perhaps reflects a need for the cosy and familiar, as well as chiming nicely with the desire to watch the pennies.  The good news is that Christmases of old tended to be much more ‘homemade’ and personal than today.  This also makes for a much more sustainable Christmas, with less single-use plastic and glitter!

So what if your Christmas decorations could come straight from your own garden?  Growing plants that double as festive decorations not only saves money but also adds a personal, sustainable touch.  Here are some of the best plants to grow that will bring Christmas cheer from garden to garland, along with a few tips on how to plant, care for and decorate with them.

If you don’t already have these growing in your garden, try our blog on making your own natural decorations from things you can pick up on a walk for ideas this Christmas and plan your 2026 planting to include some of these for next year.

 

1. Holly (Ilex aquifolium)

Few plants say “Christmas” quite like glossy green holly leaves and their bright red berries. Holly is hardy and evergreen, meaning it provides colour and structure in your garden all year round. 

When to plant: Late autumn or early spring is ideal. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil.

Planting tip: Remember that only female holly plants produce berries and they’ll need a nearby male plant for pollination.  (Ask in our Garden Centre if you’re not sure).

Decoration ideas: Snip small branches and weave them into wreaths, table centrepieces or garlands. Pair with ivy or pine for a traditional, rustic look.  (Remember, holly berries are poisonous to humans and most pets so consider where you use them.)

 

2. Ivy (Hedera helix)

Ivy’s elegant trailing vines are a timeless addition to any festive display, as well as floral decorations year round. It’s an excellent ground cover plant and is lovely trained up a trellis or wall.

When to plant: Ivy can be planted almost any time of year, though spring and autumn are best.

Planting tip: It thrives in shade and is wonderfully low-maintenance. Just keep it trimmed to stop it from getting too enthusiastic!

Decoration ideas: Use ivy to create a natural wreath base, drape it along stair banisters or pair it with fairy lights for an effortlessly charming display.

 

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

This fragrant evergreen herb not only enhances your Christmas roast and culinary adventures year long but also makes a beautiful decorative plant. Its needle-like leaves mimic the look of miniature pine branches and small blue flowers add a touch of winter colour.

When to plant: Plant in spring, in full sun and well-drained soil.  (Remember, it’s Mediterranean in origin so will happily tolerate a little dry weather.)

Planting tip: Rosemary dislikes soggy soil so add some grit when planting to improve drainage. It also grows well in containers, so is perfect for patios and smaller gardens.

Decoration ideas: Tie small rosemary sprigs into napkin rings, wreaths or gift tags for a fragrant festive touch.

 

4. Skimmia japonica

Skimmia’s glossy green leaves and clusters of bright red berries make it a natural Christmas favourite.  It is evergreen and has pale flowers in the summer.  It’s a compact shrub ideal for borders or containers.

When to plant: Spring or autumn. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

Planting tip: Like holly, you’ll need both male and female plants for berries to appear.

Decoration ideas: Use berry-covered sprigs in winter bouquets or small table arrangements.

 

5. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus alba)

In spring and summer, Cornus has bright green leaves and clusters of pale flowers.  But it’s real joy appears in the winter, after its leaves have fallen. Vibrant scarlet stems that stand out in any winter garden and are a bonus for Christmas decorations.

When to plant: Plant bare-root dogwoods in late autumn or early spring.

Planting tip: Prune hard in early spring to encourage bright new stems each year.

Decoration ideas: Use cut stems in tall vases, wreaths or outdoor planters for a splash of festive colour.  (A festive homemade star would look great from dogwood twigs!)

 

A Greener Christmas

Growing your own Christmas decorations brings a special satisfaction and it’s kinder to the planet, too. With a little forward planning, your garden can provide everything from aromatic herbs to vibrant berries and evergreens. Come December, you’ll be stepping outside not just for a breath of crisp winter air, but to gather your own home-grown festive magic.