How to Keep Mistletoe Fresh All Christmas Season
There's just something so magical about a little sprig of mistletoe hung in the doorway. From its glossy leaves and pearl white berries to the centuries-old tradition, it brings just the right touch of enchantment to Christmas. But because mistletoe is a living plant, it does require a little tender loving care to stay fresh all season long.
Here's a few simple tricks to keep your mistletoe fresh, green and ready for every Christmas kiss.
Begin with the freshest mistletoe you can find. If you’re buying it, look for full, bright-green leaves and plump, intact berries. Avoid bunches that look dry, spotted, or wilted. If you’re harvesting your own, snip it on a fabulous day after a light frost—before the temperatures dip too low—to keep the foliage firm and healthy.
Before hanging, let your mistletoe rest in a cool, dark spot. A refrigerator, unheated mudroom, or cellar works beautifully. Wrap the stems loosely in damp paper towels, then slip them into a perforated plastic bag so air can circulate. Keeping the sprigs cool helps slow down the drying process and keeps their natural shine.
For an extra boost of freshness, trim the stem ends and place them in a shallow vase or jar with a little water for a few hours before you hang them. This quick drink helps the plant absorb moisture and stay supple once it’s on display.
Mistletoe has been a staple Christmas decoration for over a century.
Once your mistletoe is up, treat it like a living decoration. Every few days, give it a gentle mist with cool water to help prevent the leaves from crisping and the berries from shriveling. Just a light spray will do—too much moisture can encourage mold.
Try to hang your mistletoe in a cooler spot, away from direct sunlight, fireplaces, or heating vents. Warm air can quickly dry it out, while a shaded doorway or archway will help it last much longer.
Can I keep mistletoe fresh after the Holidays are over?
If you’d like to keep your mistletoe looking fresh well past the holidays—or even reuse it next year—you can preserve it with a simple glycerin solution. Mix one part glycerin with two parts warm water, place the stems in the mixture, and let them sit for about a week. Once dry, the leaves will stay soft and lifelike for months.
And while mistletoe may represent love and holiday cheer, remember that its berries are toxic if eaten. Be sure to hang it safely out of reach of children and pets.
With just a bit of care, mistletoe can stay lush and lovely from the first carols to the last twinkle of the season’s lights. Whether you’re upholding an old tradition or simply adding a touch of romance to your décor, fresh mistletoe brings a hint of natural beauty—and a few extra smiles—to your home for the holidays.
