Holiday Makeovers for Your Containers

As the growing season winds down, your window boxes, annual planters, raised beds, and containers may be looking a little tired. But with a few easy updates, you can give them new life for the holidays. Refreshing your containers is a simple and creative way to make your outdoor spaces look festive while reusing what you already have.

Before you start, bring smaller planters and window boxes indoors or into a garage so the soil has a chance to thaw and can be worked with. Having pliable soil makes arranging greens and accents much easier, allowing you to secure stems firmly in place and create a full, balanced design.

Design with Seasonal Greens and Accents

Begin your design by inserting fresh balsam fir tips and white pine boughs into the soil. The fir will form the structure and density of your arrangement, while the pine adds a graceful, airy texture. Continue layering greens until your container looks full and naturally shaped from all angles.

Once your base is established, introduce pops of color and height with winterberry twigs, red-twig dogwood, or curly willow. These additions create visual contrast and help your display stand out, even on gray winter days. The bright berries and bold stems also provide lasting color through the cold months.

Finish your design with decorative touches that reflect your holiday style. A festive bow, natural pinecones, or ornaments add personality and charm, while metallic or textured accents can elevate a simple arrangement into a striking focal point. Experiment with combinations of materials to find a look that complements your home.

Find Inspiration or Let Us Help

Projects like these are a fun, hands-on way to personalize your holiday decor and make the most of your existing containers. Whether you prefer a rustic woodland look or something more refined, we offer plenty of materials to get you started. Along with local balsam and pine, you'll find an extensive selection of west coast greens, colorful stems, and ribbons in every shade and texture imaginable.

If you'd rather skip the DIY approach, Estabrook's designers can transform your containers for you. Simply drop them off, and we'll fill them with fresh greens, berries, and festive accents customized to your taste. We also craft wreaths, centerpieces, and other one-of-a-kind holiday decorations that make your home shine all season long.