The San Diego Rose Society has been invited to share in a virtual GoToMeeting program with the Temecula Valley Rose Society who will be presenting a program on creating unique wreaths of succulents just in time for the holidays.

Linda Powell, a Master Gardener advisor, will give instructions on making a pre-formed living wreath and grape vine wreaths. Roses from personal gardens from the fall flush would be a great addition to the wreaths. Members are encouraged to make wreaths during the meeting so that they can have questions answered as they go along.

Included here are the steps to the wreath-making process and the supplies needed.

Please join our meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone with this link :
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/228468133

You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (571) 317-3122
Access Code: 228-468-133

New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/228468133

Steps to make a Succulent Wreath by Linda Powell

1. There are many different ways to make a succulent wreath. Today we will look at two. The pre-formed living

wreath and the grape vine wreath

• The pre-formed wreath is easy, comes with an attached hanger and little feet to hold away from your door for air circulation. Many different sizes. I suggest Topiary art works as a source. I have found all their products to be excellent. 2 to 3 days before the workshop you will need to soak the form. You want the form damp but not dripping when you start your project.

• If you do this indoors be sure to lay a sheet or towel down to catch the moss that is shed. A few hours or less soaking is sufficient. You want the form damp but not dripping.

• The grapevine wreath you will need to make yourself. During the workshop I will show you how to make the grapevine ready to plant. All the craft stores carry grapevine wreaths.

 You will need sphagnum moss. You will be applying thickly so a large bag is needed. I suggest to purchase at a nursery. Their bags are less expensive and they carry larger sizes. Grapevine wreaths are beautiful so many people only fill half the wreath with plants. The moss needs to be damp. I usually put moss in a large container the night before with water. Squeeze out in morning. Google grapevine succulent wreaths and you will see many examples of wreaths that are half or 3⁄4 full to help you make your decision.

 Florist wire (suggest 22 gauge if possible) to wrap the moss around the grapevine.

2. Gather all components before you start the wreath – both wreath types will need:

 Cuttings, plants or combination. The cuttings need a few days to callous over. Depending on your wreath size you will need many plants/cuttings. Rosettes are very popular to use. Succulents such as small sedum ground covers and jade plants make nice fillers.

 Extra moss

 Chop stick (best) or Philips head screw driver or pencil

 Wire cutters (easier than a scissors)

 Florist wire to attach decorations or additional (optional) greenery.

 Look in your garden for attractive greens and berries. They make nice fillers. Toyon, Sugar Bush and Coffee Berry look beautiful this time of year. Pyracantha berries are gorgeous and really make a festive wreath.

 Floral pins (very important)

 Theme decorations (i.e. Holidays, Easter, Spring etc.)

 Ribbon (optional)

3. Wherever you choose to set up understand there will be a mess

4. Do not keep succulents in the home too long

5. You can work left to right, right to left or start in middle and build from there. Arrange succulents in a tentative position outside of wreath form.

6. Remember wreath will grow. Water/mist occasionally.

7. Enjoy the Process!!!!!

I will cover how to care for your wreath after the holidays. If you have any questions about the supplies needed please don’t hesitate to e mail me at lmpowell3@verizon.net.