About Fall Wreaths

Wreaths add a festive look to your home. Traditionally, fall wreaths have been featured between early September through Thanksgiving. This article focuses on the varieties, history and significance of fall wreaths and how to create your own.

History

Greeks and Romans originally used wreaths as trophies, which were worn on the head or around the neck by victors at celebrations. Once the celebration was over, the victor hung it up as a reminder of his accomplishment. The wreath was said to bring good luck.

Identification

Fall wreaths are also known as autumn or Thanksgiving wreaths. They come in a wide variety of colors and celebrate the coming of autumn. They often have a fallen-leaf theme with orange, rust-colored and red leaves. They may have a Halloween theme with pumpkins, scarecrows or bats, or they may have a Thanksgiving theme with turkeys or cornucopia.
Fall wreaths are not usually made with evergreens; these are reserved for winter wreaths.

Significance

Wreaths are made in a circular pattern--there is no beginning or end. This is often said to signify a love that knows no end, much like a wedding ring. It signifies the flow of the years.

Types

Fall wreaths can come in the form of a fresh-flower arrangement, with the traditionally fall-colored gerbera daisy sprinkled in the mix. The wreath may work as a door decoration or centerpiece for your table. It will last about three weeks with proper care.
Most fall wreaths are made from artificial flowers and leaves and can be used again.
Fall wreaths may also be made with dried flowers. These are also known as preserved wreaths because a drying agent and brighteners keep the flowers looking fresh. They are fragile and harder to store, however, and can be ruined by moisture. Store them with silica gel to preserve the flowers as long as possible. Look for dried arrangements with long-lasting, low-shedding items such as eucalyptus or berries.

Misconceptions

Wreaths made of evergreen and holly are winter wreaths, as are advent wreaths.

Potential

Creating a fall wreath can become a yearly family project. You will need either a grapevine, straw or twig wreath base, a hot-glue gun and materials your family finds while on a nature walk, such as pine cones, acorns, bright-colored leaves and berries. Once home, lay the materials on your workspace and arrange them on your wreath with glue. Add any other embellishments, such as ribbons.

Resources

• History of Wreaths