How to Use Hedge Apples for Decorations
Hedge apples are the brainlike fruit of the Osage orange, an interesting tree or shrub related neither to apple nor orange, but rather the mulberry. Hedge apples are native to Arkansas, Texas and Oklahoma. However, they now grow in many areas of the U.S. If you harvest some of the apple-green fruit, do not bother trying to eat it. While not harmful, hedge apples are not good to eat. Instead, incorporate the autumnal fruit into your fall home décor. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Place a candleholder or small plate in the center of the basket. Spread candle putty or floral clay, which can be found at most craft stores, 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick onto the bottom of a pillar candle. Secure the candle to the saucer or candleholder inside the basket.
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Arrange several hedge apples in the basket around the candle. You can pile them atop one another or place them in a single layer. If you only have a few hedge apples and the depth of the basket hides them, use filler such as straw, shredded paper or potpourri to raise them.
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Position other fruits or berries on and around the hedge apples in the basket. For example, a variety of apples, such as Granny Smith and golden delicious, would harmonize well with the color of the hedge apples. Holly and other wild berries, sweet gum balls and other findings around your yard and neighborhood can be added as well.
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Sprinkle nuts or seeds between and atop the other items in the basket. Whole nuts in their shells, such as pecans, walnuts, chestnuts and hazelnuts, also would enhance the fall appeal of the decoration. Seeds and nuts found in your yard, including acorns and pinecones in different shapes and sizes, will also add interest and variety to the decoration.
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Adorn the basket decoration with any additional embellishments you choose, such as silk fall leaves, dried flowers, shimmery ribbons or appealing twigs and foliage from your own yard.
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