December 3, 2023

4 Simple Ways to Add Christmas Magic to Your Home!

A decorated Christmas tree adorned with colourful ornaments and a bright lemon nestled among the branches.

For many, the Christmas tree is the centrepiece of holiday decorations, but opinions vary on the most sustainable options. In Christmas at River Cottage, author Lucy Brazier explores the pros and cons of different choices. While some argue that an artificial tree, reused year after year, is more environmentally friendly than a cut tree, others believe a potted tree with roots—able to be brought in and out of the garden each December—is the most sustainable choice, despite its challenges and practical limitations. Lucy also suggests alternative options like a decorated branch or a driftwood tree for a unique twist on the traditional pine.

Whichever option you choose, following the River Cottage philosophy means avoiding tinsel and glitter-covered baubles in favour of natural and vintage decorations for environmental reasons.

Festive Decorations

Dried Oranges


Dried oranges not only add a delightful visual element to your tree but also infuse the air with a lovely citrus aroma. Here’s how to create your own dried orange slices:

  1. Cut oranges into slices roughly 1cm thick.
  2. Pat with a cloth or paper to remove excess moisture.
  3. Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
  4. Bake in the oven at a low temperature (about 120°C / Fan 100°C / Gas 1/2) for around 3 hours, turning every half hour to prevent curling.
  5. Once cooled, thread with twine and hang.

Dried Apples


Dried apple slices make for another charming decoration. Follow these steps:

  1. Core your apples and slice them into 5mm thick slices.
  2. Submerge in a bowl of cold water mixed with the juice of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon of salt to prevent browning.
  3. After 10-15 minutes, drain and pat dry, then place on a rack in the oven.
  4. Bake at a low temperature (about 120°C / Fan 100°C / Gas 1/2) for around 3 hours, turning every half hour.
  5. Once cooled, thread with twine and hang.

If you’re looking to add a sweet treat to your tree (who doesn’t?), be sure to check out Pam Corbin’s Christmas biscuit recipe—an absolute favourite that fills the kitchen with the warm, spicy scent of the festive season!

Creative Garland Ideas

At River Cottage, we may skip tinsel and sparkly garlands, but we still enjoy adding swathes of festive decor. Alongside fairy lights, we like to thread cranberries or rosehips onto string to create garlands that can be fed to the birds in the new year. If the weather is dry and leaves aren’t soggy, collect a pile of burnished autumn leaves and tie them onto lengths of cotton for a beautiful winter bunting look.

Striking Displays and Arrangements

An arrangement of evergreens, mixed herbs, or dried architectural foliage makes for a stunning table centrepiece. Use old jugs or repurposed jam jars to hold your arrangements. To ensure your foliage stays fresh, create your decorations a week or two before Christmas. If you can’t wait, consider refreshing them mid-month.

Top Festive Foliage

For more inspiration, check out Christmas at River Cottage for ideas and indispensable recipes for all festive occasions. Let your creativity shine this holiday season while embracing sustainable practices!

subscribe image

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay up to date with the latest news, recipes, events and offers at River Cottage
by joining our newsletter.