Experts reveal the £3 hack that will keep your wreath looking good for all of December
It's time to give your Christmas wreath a glow up!


Soaking your wreath in glycerine is the latest hack that promises to preserve your wreath. However, florists say there are better methods to keep your Christmas wreath fresher for longer after the festive season ends.
Glycerine, a type of sugar alcohol, acts as a moisturizing agent, which means when you soak plants in a solution of glycerine and water, the glycerine helps them retain more moisture, keeping them fresher for longer.
After going to the effort to find the best plants to forage for your Christmas wreath ideas, the last thing you want is droopy foliage hanging from your door on the big day. The glycerine method claims to preserve your wreath for all of December and beyond, provided you store it correctly.
How does it work?
The method itself is relatively simple. Glycerine can be picked up at pharmacies for as little as £3 and all you need is warm water and a large container to soak it in.
‘Glycerine is a clever hack that can ensure Christmas wreaths keep their charm all season long. As a natural humectant — meaning it helps retain moisture, glycerine helps to keep your wreath looking fresh and flexible instead of dry and brittle throughout the Christmas period,’ says David Denyer, expert florist at Eflorist.
‘The process involves using a solution of glycerine and water, typically mixed in a 1:2 ratio. Plants absorb the glycerine through their stems or leaves, replacing the natural moisture lost after cutting. Over time (usually 2–3 weeks), the glycerine permeates the plant cells, giving the foliage a soft, supple feel and a slightly darkened hue, which can add a rich aesthetic to your wreath.’
Vegetable glycerine is best for preserving plants and flowers. All you need to do is add two parts warm water to one part glycerine and your solution is ready.
Is this a good method to use?
Glycerine is one of the most widely used preservatives used to preserve plants and flowers. However, most gardeners opt for vegetable glycerine instead of animal-based.
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
It works largely because cellulose, which makes up most of the plant, is brittle when dry. The glycerine is giving it a much-needed moisture boost.
However, some florists argue there is a better way to preserve your wreath.
‘The technique of preserving flowers with glycerine and water works best for single stems and even then, this method is not suitable for all flower types,’ says Vicky Salmon, in-house florist at Interflora.
Tulips, roses, and chrysanthemums are not recommended for glycerine preservation as the large heads and small stems are unbalanced. The Glycerine method works best for greenery and foliage so if your wreath lacks delicate flowers, this method can still be used.
‘This method works best for wreaths made with greenery rather than flowers as the method can discolour and weigh down flowers when treated,’ confirms David.
Are there better methods to use?
If you want to keep your wreath fresher for longer, Vicky recommends regularly spritzing it with water.
‘This will help the greenery to stay lush and the flowers to bloom for longer. Not to mention, if you’re using scented greenery like eucalyptus, that spritz will revive its festive fragrance, filling the air with a delightful, wintry scent,’ she says.
‘The other top tip is to protect your wreath from the elements. If frost is forecast overnight, pop your wreath into a cool, sheltered place like a garage or shed. This will help to preserve the freshness of the foliage and prevent any delicate flowers from wilting. Just don’t be tempted to bring your wreath inside as central heating will cause the flowers to fade faster than you can say ‘Merry Christmas’!’
Of course, there is also the option of opting for an artificial wreath. There are plenty on the market that have a luxury, realistic look - and no one will judge you for going fake!
Shop artificial wreaths
With touches of cream and silver, this artificial wreath has a quiet luxury appeal.
‘While glycerine is an effective way to preserve greenery, it doesn't make your wreaths completely unbreakable. Some plants may not absorb glycerine evenly, leading to arrangements that are preserved in some areas but wilting in others. Also, glycerine-treated wreaths are not suitable for outdoor use in humid or rainy climates since moisture can reactivate the solution and cause dripping,’ concludes David.
The glycerine method does work and is a popular way to preserve plants in the gardening world. However, if your wreath contains delicate flowers, the great British weather is getting us down, or you want to enjoy the festive scents of your foliage, spritzing it daily with water is your best option.

Kezia Reynolds joined the Ideal Home team as News Writer in September 2024. After graduating from City, University of London in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Kezia kicked off her career spending two years working on women’s weekly magazines. She is always on the lookout for the latest home news, finding you the best deals and trends - so you don’t miss a thing!
-
Wood drenching is the calming new twist on the colour drenching trend – here’s how to make the look work in your home
It’s easier than ever to embrace natural materials
By Maddie Balcombe
-
Aldi is launching a £200 day bed with four different features - its sleek design is suited to the whole family
You don't want to miss out on this Specialbuy
By Kezia Reynolds
-
How to set up a drip watering system that saves water and a lot of effort
Keep your plants hydrated (and your water bill down) with this clever garden watering solution
By Natalie Osborn
-
I've been waiting to try out the Ninja Slushi for months – this is what happened the first time I tried it
The Ninja Slushi is the stuff of dreams for summer entertaining
By Molly Cleary
-
IKEA has drenched its BILLY bookcase in this year’s ‘it’ colour - but you’ll have to act fast if you want to get your hands on one
I'm obsessed with this gorgeous limited-edition colourway
By Kezia Reynolds
-
My go-to Ninja coffee machine just had a major price drop. It's more affordable than I've seen it before
It makes coffee shop quality achievable at home
By Molly Cleary
-
I'm a kitchen decor editor and didn't like this tableware trend - until I saw H&M Home's designer-look plates
They made it easy to justify a new crockery set
By Holly Cockburn
-
Have we just had a sneak peek at Ninja's plans for pastel air fryers? These new US-exclusive Crispi colours are giving us hope for the same in the UK
Ninja's spring colours collection i the US has sparked some serious appliance envy
By Molly Cleary
-
I'm suffering serious kitchen appliance envy over Ooni's new standmixer that sold out in 4 hours, but it's finally back in stock
Here's why the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral mixer is a big deal for at-home breadmakers
By Molly Cleary
-
I’ve been looking for a new signature scent for my home and The White Company's new fragrance is the exact summer holiday smell I needed
Santorini smells fresh, summery and sophisticated
By Kezia Reynolds
-
Should your doormat go inside or outside the front door? According to experts I've been getting it wrong for years
Experts reveal the best spot for a a doormat based on your preferences and where you live
By Sara Hesikova