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More
on centerpieces and evergreens
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MUST HAVES
Holly
Christmas holly is a shrub that is protected
throughout most of Europe, because it was cut down in large numbers
as a result of its use in the Christmas festivities. It grows in
different types of soil and can stand the driest of climates. It
can be found in pine or oak forests. It grows very slowly and can
live for more than a hundred years. Its berries ripen in the fall
and are food to birds, herbivores and rodents. Its combination of
green and red colors, perennial leaves and berries, is a symbol
of fertility and vitality associated with renewal. Its use as a
Christmas evergreen is attributed to the Catholic Church, in its
attempt to replace the pagan mistletoe; its use became widely popular
throughout Europe and North America.
Dry Fruits
Fall and the beginning of winter are their
prime seasons. One only needs to wander up any nearby hills or walk
around any garden to find a wide variety of dry fruits that can
be used to create our very own Christmas centerpiece. Acorns, beechnuts,
hazelnuts or even chestnuts are enough to create a unique atmosphere
on the table. Their color and in many cases their shiny texture,
create a very special contrast with candles, plates and flowers.
Plus they are easy to get and cheap.
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