Get Creative with Christmas Trees and Holiday Decor

I usually sit out the debates about which type of tree makes the “best Christmas tree.” However, I have been asked several years in a row to weigh in on this question. In typical “Nickie” fashion, I believe any tree can be a Christmas tree. It can have any kind of leaf or form. It may be in the ground, in a pot, or cut. It might be real or artificial. Sometimes it is a smell or other reminder of something you cherish that transforms that plant into your Christmas tree. So, this year, whatever form your tree takes, lean into the simple, the emotional, and the accessible—because the best Christmas tree is the one that causes you to light up inside.

Now that we’ve dispatched that subject, let’s talk about ways to reduce your holiday stress levels through simple calming and restorative activities you may do alone or with a friend or two. While you are out and about doing your last-minute shopping, add a few things to your list that will give you 15 to 30 minutes to boost your holiday spirit and soothe your soul.

Herbal wreath or centerpiece: Trim, tie, and arrange sprigs of rosemary, sage, thyme, or lavender for use in wreath-making or for placement into a shallow dish for a table centerpiece. The wonderful smell of the herbs, along with the slow rhythm of the work, will become its own kind of meditation. Add music or the sweet chatter of friends for a quick, relaxing break before an at-home gathering.

Gratitude and memory markers: Rock-painting is a grounding, creative, and very personal activity you may do to relieve your holiday tensions. Some people go rock-hunting, but that might be a bit much at this point. I admit to purchasing bags of flat, smooth, medium-size rocks from places that sell landscaping goods.

Years ago, the volunteers painted gardening-themed things on their rocks—words, pictures, or a combination of both. You are not limited to any theme or artistic requirement. Use acrylic paints and paintbrushes or paint pens. Then use a clear coat/sealer (I use a spray) to protect your little masterpieces. Hide them in public places for someone to discover, give them to friends as custom tokens, or keep them for your own home and landscape. One rock is great for at least a few minutes of peaceful focus.

Mini-container refresh: Replace one or two spiller or filler plants in your container gardens. Sometimes, it is just easier to pull out a plant that has not taken off yet and replace it with one that is a little healthier. Add a new seasonal bloom, then top off the soil with some compost. This small act of nurturing brings quick visual satisfaction. Doing this with a friend can turn into a quiet chat-with-hands-in-the-dirt moment.

It’s December, so have a cup of tea or other warm beverage and try not to become overwhelmed with unrealistic expectations of yourself or your landscape. There is truly very little you can do now that will make a big impact. Most of your plants should begin to relax, and so should you. My usual winter tips remain the same: monitor the weather, reduce watering, and make sure your ornamentals are well mulched. As we approach January, let the New Year come in with calm and overflowing kindness.

Nickie Munroe is an environmental horticulture agent with the University of Florida’s IFAS Indian River County Extension.