In the photo to the left, you will see many textures abound from spruce, silver fir, Port Orford cedar, juniper and 'Stoneham gold' cedar branches accented by orange-hue eucalyptus, caspia and Southern magnolia leaves.

You tend to think because it is so cold and out of blooming season why bother but as you can see, some attention to minor details can really make a huge difference.

Take a potted Fraser fir (photo below)merry with dried artichokes and pear gourds, dyed eucalyptus, caspia, astilbe seed pods, dried hydrangea blooms and pinecone garland and place in a decorative planter and you have a stunning - yet simple and easy to do idea.  Many of these products can be purchased in the floral department in major craft stores.  Be creative and try different dried fruit and veggies along with your greens for the most interesting effects.

If you are expecting holiday houseguests then why not place a fun container overflowing with evergreens and winter plant accents for your garden, on the front porch and provide instant hospitality and a genuine welcome.  Use a vintage wheelbarrow, antique wash tub or kids sleigh.  

Great Tip - Though howling winds, ice and snow are formidable enemies, many arrangments can last all winter.  To prevent containers from cracking as temperatures fluctuate, insert arrangements in place line pots atleast 1" smaller than your container.  That way if the temps hit freezing you won't crack or damage your decorative container.