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Over the years, I’ve slowly transitioned from decorating for the holidays with plastic decorations and artificial greens (like trees, wreaths, branches, etc) to natural and sustainable options. I’m far from perfect in this department, and I still use plastic decorations in my home (especially things I’ve bought or received in the past that carry a lot of nostalgia), but I try to use sustainable alternatives whenever possible.

Today I’m sharing my favorite natural and sustainable holiday decor ideas with you. These materials come from nature and are biodegradable, affordable, and easy to use. When you’re done, you can compost them instead of putting them away in storage for next year, which will save you valuable space in your home. Happy decorating! :)

Winterberries or Red Sumac Berries

Bright red winterberries can be styled to look either traditional or modern. Arrange them with pine sprigs and pinecones for a classic look, or simply place them in a vase for a more minimal style.

You can forage these berries if they grow where you live, or you can buy them from this seller on Etsy.

Cinnamon Sticks 

Set aside a few cinnamon sticks from your holiday cooking projects to make some beautiful decor! Cinnamon sticks look (and smell) great tied into little bundles and placed in potpourri baskets or attached to wreaths.

Dried Orange Slices

You can either purchase dried orange slices, or make your own in the oven! To make my own dried orange slices, I place thinly sliced oranges on a rack on top of a baking sheet and bake them at 200 F for about 2 hours.

Dried orange slices will look beautiful on your tree (string them together to make a garland, or loop a piece of string through slices and hang directly on your tree). You can also attach them to gifts or add them to a holiday potpourri basket.

Fresh Cranberries 

Cranberries add a classic pop of color to your holiday decor. Use a needle and thread to string together fresh cranberries for a garland, or place them in a jar or vase for a more modern look.

Holly

Deck the halls with boughs of holly! :P Place holly springs in a holiday bouquet, on your mantle, or in a mistletoe arrangement.

Pinecones

You can either buy pinecones or forage them from outside if you have pine trees in your area. Use wire to create a pinecone garland, place the pinecones in a bowl or basket, or attach them to gifts for a special touch.

Paper and Jute

Use natural jute or a biodegradable string like cotton twine to hang your ornaments. Instead of buying plastic decorations to trim your tree, try making one some handmade paper Christmas decorations!

eucalyptus or pine sprigs

Use evergreen sprigs or eucalyptus to make a beautiful handmade wreath or place the greens in a vase with holiday berries for a festive arrangement.

Dried Flowers

Dried flowers are so elegant, and they can be used to decorate all winter long (not just for Christmas). Pampas grass is an excellent option that you can repurpose for your home decor all year round!