An Easy DIY: A Succulent, Magnolia Cone & Walnut Adorned Wreath
This wreath won’t knock the socks off of you in terms or sparkle and shine, but if you like your decorations on the “au natural” side, then this easy DIY’s for you. It was created with the holiday season in mind but can be put together and displayed at any time of year. Succulents, magnolia cones and walnuts make a beautiful combo, 1 that Mother Nature herself would endorse!
I collected magnolia cones that fell from the street trees in Santa Barbara, succulents from my garden and walnuts bought at the farmers market for the decor.
1 of the many Aeoniums in my garden. They’re great for crafting because they form a beautiful rosette & hold up a long time sans soil.
I’ve always loved using magnolia cones in my various creations but pine cones can easily be switched out. The shape of a magnolia cone works really well when making a wreath and I’ve used them when crafting Christmas ornaments. Just add a little glitter, a bow, hang on the tree & viola! Walnuts are nice and light and can also be used tucked into centerpieces like this one.
This glittered magnolia cone, with 2 baby cones attached at the top, is embellished with a couple of Jade Plant cuttings. You can find the how to for this easy ornament & others in my book Mother Nature Inspired Christmas Ornaments.
I know we’re all busy shopping, decorating & baking so this wreath DIY project won’t take long:
The Materials:
– Fishing line
– Wire wreath frame, purchased at Michaels
– Magnolia cones
– Walnuts
– Spanish moss, preserved green
– Succulents, namely Aeoniums which form a beautiful rosette
– Hot glue
The Steps:
–> Attach the moss to the wire frame with fishing line.
–> Nestle the magnolia cones in the moss & tie them down with fishing line.
–> Glue on the walnuts.
–> Add the aeoniums & attach them with hot glue. I always let the glue cool a bit before touching the succulents so it’s not a hot shock!
If you’re making this wreath for the holidays, you can always add in or substitute evergreen foliage like pine, cedar or boxwood.
Christmas wreaths are a holiday classic and don’t we like having a new one each December? They’re a warm and wonderful way to greet all the people that visit your house during this busy season. This succulent, magnolia cone and walnut wreath is so versatile that it’s a welcoming sight at the holiday season or any time of year!
Happy creating,
Here are additional DIY ideas to get you in a festive mood:
- Last Minute Christmas Centerpiece
- 13 Blooming Plant Choices for Christmas
- Homemade Natural Christmas Decorations
- How to Make a Holiday Wreath with Plants
- Tips for Keeping Your Poinsettias Looking Good
If you like making Christmas ornaments, then be sure to check out my books:
Mother Nature Inspired Christmas Ornaments
Ornaments To Make Your Christmas Sparkle
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Nell, the founder of Joy Us garden, was born into a gardening family and grew up in Connecticut’s countryside. After living in Boston, New York, San Francisco, & Santa Barbara, she now calls the Arizona desert home. She studied horticulture & garden design, working in the field all her life. Nell is a gardener, designer, blogger, Youtube creator, & author. She’s been gardening for a very long time & wants to share what she’s learned with you.
What a great idea to use Magnolia cones in a natural wreath! I always thought of those things lying on the ground as just a nuisance. Thank you.
Hi Michele – You’re very welcome! I love Magnolia cones; they’re such a beautiful shape. Nell
I love your ability to create beautiful things using natural elements. The magnolia pods in a wreath really resonate with me. I am wondering if the succulents can be watered and become a living part of the magnolia pod wreath. If so, what do you recommend to keep them healthy and happy?
Thank you for your unselfish gift ? of sharing your love if beautiful plants…it blesses me every time I check out your site . Abundant blessings, Candy Emerson
Oh thank you so much Candace! I love doing this sort of thing & am happy to share. The longest I’ve kept a wreath like that intact was for 14 months but here’s what I did. I used a deep enough wreath form to get a double layer of moss in plus a bit of succulent & cactus mix. That gives them something to grow into. I would spray it really well instead of watering by can or hose. The type of succulents make a difference too; some are tougher than others. Blessings to you! Nell