Holiday greenery sets the tone for the entire season, whether you’re decorating your front door, styling a table, or creating a fresh evergreen porch pot. But every year, the same question comes up: Is live greenery really worth it, or should you go faux?
At Urbane Eight, we work with both live and long-lasting greenery, and the truth is this: each has a place, but nothing beats the look, scent, and texture of fresh greens when it comes to Christmas décor. Here’s how to decide what’s right for your home and how to keep your live wreaths and garlands looking lush through the holidays.
Browse fresh holiday greenery here: fresh wreaths
The Case for Live Holiday Greenery
Nothing compares to the scent of fresh spruce, cedar, and fir. Live greens bring an organic softness and authenticity that faux pieces simply can’t match. They catch light beautifully, they feel luxurious, and they instantly elevate your home with that “real Christmas” atmosphere.
They also thrive in cold climates, fresh greenery actually lasts longer outdoors in Alberta thanks to our natural winter refrigeration.
Live greenery is best for:
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Front door wreaths
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Outdoor garlands
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Porch pots and exterior planters
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Centerpieces you want to look natural and full
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Anyone who loves that fresh evergreen smell
The Case for Faux Holiday Greenery
Faux greenery has come a long way. Modern designs look incredibly realistic, and they shine in places where live greens struggle, warm rooms, mantels directly above heat vents, or interior spaces that dry out live greens within days.
Faux greenery is best for:
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Warm interiors and sunny rooms
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High shelves and areas that are hard to mist
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Long-term use or low-maintenance décor
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Households with severe allergy concerns
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Anyone who wants a “set it and forget it” holiday display
So… Which One Should You Choose?
Most homes benefit from a mix of live and faux greenery.
Choose live if you want:
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Lush outdoor décor
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Beautiful fresh-smelling arrangements
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Natural textures and variation
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A premium, authentic holiday look
Choose faux if you want:
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Zero maintenance
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Décor that lasts for years
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Greens that won’t dry out in warm rooms
Using both lets you enjoy the beauty of fresh greens where they last longest, and the practicality of faux where they make the most sense.
How Long Does a Live Wreath Last?
This is the question for anyone investing in fresh greenery.
Outdoors (Cold Alberta Weather):
4–8 weeks, often longer
Cold temperatures preserve greens beautifully. A fresh wreath on a shaded, north-facing door can last well into January.
Indoors:
2–3 weeks with proper care
Warm furnace air dries greens quickly, so indoor life is shorter. That’s why many customers use faux indoors and save live greenery for outside.
Join us for a live wreath workshop
Live Wreath Care: How to Make It Last Longer
Fresh wreaths are easy to maintain once you know what they need. Follow these simple steps to maximize their life.
1. Keep it out of direct sun and heat
Whether inside or outside, direct sunlight causes faster drying. For outdoor wreaths, shade is best.
2. Mist it regularly
A fine mister helps keep moisture in the needles, especially indoors.
Try our modern plant misters
3. Avoid hanging it above heat vents
Heat dries out greens quickly, causing brittleness and needle drop.
4. Use anti-desiccant spray (optional)
This natural spray seals in moisture and helps fresh greenery last longer.
5. Choose quality greenery to begin with
Premium wreaths made with fresh cedar, fir, pine, or juniper last longer than mixed bundles from big-box stores.
Fresh Greenery Christmas Ideas That Actually Last
Outdoor Porch Pots
Fresh spruce, cedar, and pine freeze beautifully in Alberta temperatures, keeping their shape and colour for weeks.
Explore porch pots
Winter Garlands
Use them outdoors on railings or around doorframes—cold air helps preserve them naturally.
Indoor Centerpieces
Perfect for holiday tables, paired with candles and winter berries. Just keep them misted and away from direct heat.
Final Thoughts: Live vs. Faux—There’s No Wrong Choice
Live greenery gives you the beauty, fragrance, and winter magic that defines the season. Faux greenery gives you longevity and ease. Together, they create a home that’s festive, stylish, and practical for Alberta winters.
Whether you're decorating your entryway, mantel, or holiday table, Urbane Eight has fresh greens, wreaths, porch pots, and décor pieces to help you create a look that lasts all season.