Winter’s chill calls for decorations that are warm, natural, and timeless—and dried orange garlands deliver all three. These vibrant citrus slices double as radiant ornaments and subtle air fresheners, filling your home with light and a hint of citrus.
Rooted in history and rich in tradition, this eco-friendly craft is as sustainable as it is beautiful, making it a perfect way to bring charm and meaning to your seasonal décor year after year.
The Historical Significance
The tradition of oranges in winter celebrations traces back to the legend of Saint Nicholas, the 3rd-century Bishop of Myra, who saved three maidens by tossing balls of gold through their window, with one landing in a stocking by the fire. (ref)
During the Great Depression, oranges were considered precious gifts, often placed in Christmas stockings as a rare luxury for children, reflecting their status as exotic and expensive fruits in 19th-century Europe.
In Asian cultures, particularly Chinese, oranges have represented good fortune and prosperity for centuries. The Chinese word for orange sounds similar to the word for success, while the character contains elements representing longevity, making it a powerful symbol of good fortune and long life in traditional celebrations.
Creative Variations & Styling Tips
Create stunning variations by combining dried orange slices with other natural elements.
- Thread wooden beads between orange slices for a Scandinavian-inspired look, or incorporate cinnamon sticks and star anise for added fragrance and visual interest.
- For a more dramatic effect, hang orange slices in front of fairy lights to create a warm, stained-glass window effect that casts beautiful shadows.
- Mix blood oranges with regular oranges to achieve different color variations and deeper tones in your garland.
- You can also experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons for a bright yellow accent, or combine the garland with fresh evergreen boughs for a traditional holiday look.
- For added sparkle, consider applying a light coating of biodegradable glitter spray to the dried slices.
Sustainability & Environmental Benefits
Dried orange garlands represent a perfect blend of eco-conscious decorating and traditional craftsmanship. These decorations can last 2-3 years when properly dried and stored, making them a sustainable alternative to plastic decorations.
The entire garland is biodegradable and can be composted at the end of its life, contributing to zero-waste holiday decorating.
This natural decoration aligns with the growing movement toward consuming less and creating more. By using short-dated oranges from local shops, you can help reduce food waste while creating beautiful decorations.
The versatility of dried orange garlands extends beyond the holiday season, allowing them to transition through multiple seasons and reducing the need for multiple decorative items.
Troubleshooting & Tips
- Ensure oranges are completely dry before storage to prevent mold
- Select firm oranges with minimal blemishes for the best results
- Cut slices uniformly for even drying and aesthetic appeal
- Consider using a mandolin slicer for consistent thickness
- Store in a cool, dry place between seasons
Alternative Uses
The dried orange slices can serve multiple purposes beyond garlands:
- As gift wrap embellishments
- Individual tree ornaments
- Natural potpourri
- Table scatter for holiday centerpieces
- Window decorations when hung individually
Dried Orange Garland
Equipment
- cookie sheets
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or mandolin slicer
- Cooling rack
- Large darning needle
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Materials
- 5-6 large oranges
- Twine or string length depends on desired garland size
- wooden beads for decoration optional
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 250°F
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper
- Position rack in middle of oven
Orange Preparation:
- Slice oranges into 1/4-inch rounds
- Pat dry with paper towels
- Arrange on lined baking sheets without overlapping
Drying Process:
- Bake for 3 hours
- Rotate slices every hour
- Cool completely on wire racks
Assembly:
- Measure and cut string (add 2-3 feet for draping)
- Thread needle with string
- Pierce oranges through flesh
- Space as desired
- Create hanging loops at ends
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.