Holiday Decorating: Start with November Flowers

While visions of turkey and pumpkin pie may fill your mind, don't forget that November also brings an array of beautiful blooms to usher in the fall holidays. Incorporating seasonal flowers into your home is a charming way to get into the spirit of Thanksgiving. Not only does it provide pops of warm tones to complement the cozy autumnal palette, but flowers also add a lovely fragrance and lift moods.

We will explore ideas for how to incorporate seasonal blooms from your garden or local florist in Philadelphia PA into your home.

When to begin your holiday decor

While the holidays are still a few weeks away, now is the perfect time to start bringing in touches of the season. November provides a gentle transition into the festive mood. Decorating with fall flowers is a lovely way to begin.

Consider seasonal blooms

Chrysanthemums, roses, orchids, and carnations are flowers that often remain available into the late fall months. Their warm hues of copper, burgundy, and burnt orange complement the rich color palette of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Look for varieties labeled "seasonal" or "holiday" at your local florist or supermarket.

• Chrysanthemums come in a wide assortment of shapes and shades like yellow, rust, and burgundy at many Philadelphia florists. Their hardiness makes them a go-to choice for indoor decoration through November.

• Orchids last for weeks when properly cared for and add an elegant note. Mini phalaenopsis orchids in shades of red and white look especially festive.

• Roses with hues of plum and crimson still provide splashes of color on your table or mantel even after their blooms have faded slightly. Their lush greenery and shapely buds stay attractive.

• Carnations offer long-lasting flowers in coral, burgundy, and gold tones to brighten up space. They have a spicy fragrance that lifts your mood too and are easily available at many flower shops in Philadelphia PA.

Create fall-themed centerpieces and arrangements

You can incorporate seasonal blooms into centerpieces and other decor items in the home. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Harvest table centerpiece - Fill a basket or bowl with mums, roses, wheat, and pinecones for a rustic centerpiece perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.

Mantelpiece arrangements - Combine mini roses, orchids, and candles in glass containers amongst pinecones and branches along your mantel.

Front porch greeting - Cluster crimson carnations and yellow mums in a terra cotta pot or bucket outside your front door. Add a holiday ribbon for a welcoming touch.

Sideboard accents - Tuck single-stemmed roses or orchids among your favorite family photos, candles, and holiday mementos on an entryway sideboard.

The flowers you select will last through the early weeks of November, setting a festive autumnal tone leading into the main holiday season. Your home will smell lovely and feel cozy and inviting to guests.

More ideas for holiday decorating with fall flowers

While flowers are a perfect low-effort starting point, you might want to incorporate some additional decor as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach. Here are some suggestions:

• Add velvet bows, pinecones, or mini ornament accents to your floral arrangements for visual interest.

• Drape holiday greenery like garlands of ivy, holly, or bittersweet along stair railings and mantels.

• Cluster tea lights or pillar candles in small groupings on counters, end tables, and windowsills for ambient lighting.

• Hang fall-colored seasonal ribbons on front doors, banisters, or around flowerpots outside your home.

• Display favorite seasonal cards, prints, and family photos in frames around your living space.

• Bring out treasured collections of decor like your nana's china or handmade ornaments from childhood to exhibit.

Tips for caring for holiday flowers

Proper care is key to enjoying your seasonal blooms through the entire November celebration season. Here are some tips:

• Place flowers in clean vases or containers filled with fresh water. Change the water every other day.

• Cut 1-2 inches off the stem bottoms and remove any leaves below the water line before arranging. This keeps stems fresh longer.

• Display flowers in a cool spot away from direct sunlight or heating/cooling vents which can cause wilting.

• Remove any flowers that begin to fade or brown at the edges to prevent rot. Trim remaining blooms as needed.

• Lightly mist the leaves of plants like mums and ferns daily to keep them perky. Wipe any water droplets that accumulate.

• Add a floral preservative packet if specified by your retailer. These carefully regulate pH levels and keep blooms hydrated longer.

Philly Flowers And Edibles has carefully selected only the hardiest varieties that will last through your holiday celebrations. Browse their selection of pre-arranged bouquets, centerpieces, and wreaths perfect for any space in your home.