Wreath Ringed by Roses

A florist's foam wreath form is the basis of this wreath, which utilizes small amounts of many different materials.

To create this wreath, you'll insert short bits of greenery, then add fruits and flowers. We've used fresh flowers. However, silk flowers and artificial fruits and greenery will create a longer-lasting wreath with no maintenance.

Note: This wreath, when made with fresh flowers, cannot withstand freezing temperatures so is a better choice for milder climates if used outdoors. Otherwise, hang it indoors over a mantel or on an interior door.

Find a list of materials and how-tos below.

• Flowers: Leonidas roses, hydrangeas, dahlia buds, red grevillea
• Greens: white pine, English ivy, cedar, feathery Ming fern, foxtails
• Fruit: pomegranates, cherries
• Floral foam wreath (made of oasis -- for fresh flowers)
• Sharp knife or clippers
• Florist's wire

1. Submerge the foam wreath form into water and let soak thoroughly. To enhance water retention, insert a small knife, twisting slightly to create small butterfly-shaped marks into the foam. Make these cuts 3 or 4 inches apart all over the wreath. (These small holes will help funnel water into the center of the foam.)
2. Using a sharp knife or garden clippers, cut up greenery into small, 4- to 6-inch sprigs. Insert greenery all over to cover the form completely. Tip: Working with one type of material at a time will help evenly distribute each variety.
3. Next, cut the roses or other flowers so stems are about 3 inches long and insert into the foam.
4. Using real or artificial fruits, attach these to the wreath with florist's wire.
5. Make bows from golden satin ribbon with long ends, then tuck and pin them into place.
6. Tip: Misting daily will help keep the foam damp and the wreath fresh. However, water may spot ribbons.