Trimming the tree with fresh flowers - Christmas tree

Sunset, Dec, 1990

Fresh flowers and greens make a joyful medley of natural ornaments. Their beauty is fleeting, though, making them best for special occasions. Some plants, like gerberas, can last a week in water; others, like camellias, last only three days. You can replace faded blooms with fresh ones. In mild climates, choose winter-blooming flowers from your garden camellias, jade plant blossoms, even lingering hibiscus.

In colder climates, garden greens such as ivy and holly can complement fresh flowers from a florist or nursery; gerberas, rubrum or tiger lilies, and roses are good choices. Water vials (plastic or glass) are sold at florists and craft supply stores in 1 1/2 to 3inch sizes. Larger ones hold more water and, because they're longer, stay in place more easily atop tree branches: 3-inch vials cost about 50 cents each. To decorate the tree, position lights first. If you plan to use long strands of ivy, slip the cut ends in water vials, tuck each vial into foliage so it doesn't show, then weave the strands through branches. If necessary use florist's tape to attach the vials to the branches. Finally, embellish tree with flowers. Check vials daily, and refill if necessary.