Patio decorating ideas for the holidays are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. But if your patio looks a little tired, it can be a challenge for the holiday season. Luckily, there are plenty of easy and inexpensive ways to spruce up your outdoor space. Simple Patio Decorating Ideas for the Holidays Turn your patio into a festive gathering space with these easy and inexpensive DIY patio decorating ideas for the holidays. Your friends and family will be impressed with your holiday handiwork! Add Holiday Flair to Your Outdoors Festive holiday pillows and cozy blankets can quickly make your outdoor sitting areas more festive. You can find pillows and blankets in any holiday color or pattern. It’s easy to find something that fits your style. Gather around the fire with some cozy blankets and hot cocoa for a festive evening. String some lights around your patio for a warm and inviting glow. You do not have to lock yourself inside your house when it gets cold during … [Read more...] about Patio Decorating Ideas for the Holidays
Christmas
Why We Kiss Under Mistletoe–and Other Mistletoe Facts
Why do we kiss under mistletoe at Christmas? The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe started way back in 16th century England. The custom traveled to early America, where kissing under the mistletoe was mentioned in a Washington Irving short story, “The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.” In Irving’s day, whenever a couple kissed under a mistletoe sprig, they took off one of the white berries. When all of the berries were gone from the sprig, the kissing power stopped. How’s that for good luck? Mistletoe Once Symbolized Romance, Fertility, and Vitality At Christmastime, we think of kissing under a sprig of mistletoe. In the 21st century, that mistletoe sprig might be artificial. Yet, most folks (like me!) prefer the real thing and order fresh or dried mistletoe to carry on the "kiss under the mistletoe" tradition. Some scholars believe that the ancient Greeks started the kissing tradition when they celebrated Kronia. The Kronia celebration was in the winter, … [Read more...] about Why We Kiss Under Mistletoe–and Other Mistletoe Facts
How to Take Care of Holiday Gift Plants
Take care of holiday gift plants with these helpful tips! If you received a holiday gift plant, you are in good company. Countless thousands of people receive beautiful, living gift plants every year . But (especially if you’re not a “green thumb” gardener), the next question involves how to take care of holiday gift plants. Sure, it was delightful when the doorbell rang to announce the arrival of a gift box that contained your live plant. Straight out of the box it was gorgeous. What a nice surprise! Thoughtful as the gift was, it could lead to a potential disaster. Your thoughts shoot forward to the fateful day next month when that same friend calls and asks brightly, “So how is the plant doing?” Will you have to confess you killed it? Thankfully, no! Because in this article I will reveal the five keys to gift plant survival—so you can take care of holiday gift plants like a pro. The tips below apply to all types of holiday gift plants. If you want more information … [Read more...] about How to Take Care of Holiday Gift Plants
Gifts for Gardeners this Holiday Season
Here is an assortment of perfect gifts for gardeners and homeowners on your holiday shopping list. Let's face it. The colder months of the holiday season do not lend themselves to gardening in most climates. But that doesn't mean gardening is completely out of mind. Avid gardeners and homeowners who must keep their yards neat and tidy appreciate garden-related gifts during "the most wonderful time of the year." It is actually quite easy to find great gifts for gardeners and homeowners. These folks always need something to satisfy their green thumbs, finish a DIY project, or add one more personal touch to the property. That's why the editors of Home, Garden and Homestead have put together their annual list of the best gifts for gardeners this holiday season. Heck, you might even want to give some of these gifts to yourself. Gifts for Gardeners: Tools The Ultimate Weeding Tools The CobraHead Weeder gets its name from the shape of the tempered steel blade, which … [Read more...] about Gifts for Gardeners this Holiday Season
How to Choose and Care for a Living Christmas Tree
A living Christmas tree can make this year's holiday season special for many, many years. Selecting the family Christmas tree is an exciting holiday tradition. But instead of buying a cut tree this year, why not choose a living Christmas tree? A decorated living Christmas tree celebrates the holiday season—and then becomes a growing part of your landscape for years to come. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, the average retail price of a farm-grown holiday tree is approaching $100. Sure, a freshly cut holiday brings the delightful scent of a pine forest into your home. But for a few dollars more, you can buy a living Christmas tree. A living, container-grown tree can be purchased at local garden centers and some “big box” stores. If strong north winds are a problem in your yard, now is a good time to start planting the first of that hedgerow of evergreens to break the wind. This is the fun way to get the job done. Each living Christmas tree will have its … [Read more...] about How to Choose and Care for a Living Christmas Tree
