Natural, homemade holiday decorations are not only festive, merry and bright, they’re also a great way to be more eco-conscious this time of year.
Traditionally, garlands are made with leaves and berries, bringing the deep green and red colors of winter into your home But these brilliant citrus garlands offer a brightness that can be added to any residence, any décor, any season (or even all year long!). They’re also great for anyone celebrating the winter holidays in a summer climate.
This do-it-yourself garland requires minimal supplies and is easy to put together. All you need are a few fruits, some string and a needle. Though we’re using orange and cinnamon essential oils to fill your home with a warm, festive aroma, feel free to substitute with whichever scents and fruits you like.
Since any round citrus fruit will work for this project, you can use oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, blood oranges and so much more. For a winter-inspired feel, try a combination of limes and grapefruit, or, for a more refreshing, summery feel, layer on the lemons. Hang your garlands in a tree, over the mantel, in a doorway, arrange it as a center piece – the possibilities are truly endless.
DIY Dried Citrus Holiday Garland
Ingredients
- Citrus fruit of choice
- Twine or string
- Embroidery needle
- Orange essential oil
- Cinnamon essential oil
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 170 to 200 degrees F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Slice fruit into 1/8-1/4”-thick slices, making sure there’s enough peel to hold the fruit together. Remove seeds.
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Pat slices dry and arrange on baking sheet.
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Dehydrate in oven 3 to 5 hours, carefully flipping halfway through. Remove when fruit is dried and ever so slightly browned at the edges.
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While fruit is still warm, add a drop or so of each essential oil to each slice.
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Cut string to desired length and tie to eye of needle.
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Once fruit is cool, pull needle and string through top of each slice between the flesh and peel. Layer fruit in any order.
Recipe Notes
- Make sure to use a sharp knife to conserve juice and shape.
- To air dry the citrus slices, lay them flat in a dry area for about 4 days.
- The larger the fruit, the longer it needs to fully dehydrate. Be patient and check often.
- Spice up your garland with the addition of other fruits and plants such as cranberries and bay leaves.
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