I love holiday pizzazz just as much as the next person, but there's something–well, a lot–to be said for holiday decorations that are unfussy, good for small spaces, and add a natural prettiness to your home.
That's why I went to one of my favorite plant stores in the city–the under-the-elevated-train-tracks East Harlem wonderland that is Urban Garden Center–to see what green options they had for the holidays. And boy did they not disappoint. (For all you traditionalists, I should add they also sell a huge array of full-size Christmas trees.)
Here are eight super easy ways to bring some natural holiday cheer to your space. The rest–ornaments, bows, lights–is up to you:
1. Charlie Brown Christmas tree
Urban Garden Center sells these small, uneven Fraser firs (hence the name) complete with a mini stand and a lone red ornament ($30). Each is about one-to-three feet tall.
2. RED AND WHITE CYCLAMEN
Add an instant pop of bright red, white and green to your home with these gorgeous houseplants that don't require a lot of care ($7.50 for small, $15 for large).
3. FRESH BOUGHS AND PINE CONES
UGC sells these small bits of nature separately, but you can easily arrange them in a wide decorative bowl of your choice.
4. IVY WREATH
UGC does offer traditional Christmas wreaths, but if you're bad with nails and hammers, this tiny little ivy wreath is a sweet addition to a desk or shelf ($15). Just add a festive bow and you're good to go.
5. RED and WHITE POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias are a perennial holiday favorite, and UGC sells them in an impressive range of sizes and shades, starting at an affordable $6.50.
6. MINI NORFOLK ISLAND PINE
Looking for something even smaller than the Charlie Brown Christmas tree? This dainty potted pine is your answer ($5).
7. AMARYLLIS BULB
This stunning flowering bulb also makes a great host or hostess gift.
8. SILVER BUSH SHAPED LIKE A CHRISTMAS TREE
If you prefer a very subtle take on holiday decorating, you'll love this silvery topiary that will look great year round ($15).
