As the first signs of spring begin to stir in the hedgerows and gardens, few things feel more rewarding than creating something beautiful with your own hands—especially when it celebrates the season’s quiet arrival. An early spring wreath, woven from foraged branches and seasonal blooms, brings the freshness of the outdoors inside, marking the transition from winter’s dormancy to spring’s slow unfurling.
Whether hung on your front door, propped on a mantelpiece, or used as a centrepiece, a spring wreath is an elegant expression of the moment—wild, ephemeral, and full of promise.
Here’s how to make your own.
What to Forage in Early Spring
The joy of a foraged wreath lies in its imperfection—its asymmetry, texture, and story. Early spring offers a surprising abundance if you know where to look.
Twigs & Base Material:
Dogwood (Cornus): vibrant red stems provide structure and colour.
Hazel or Willow: pliable, ideal for creating your wreath base.
Silver birch twigs: delicate and wispy, perfect for soft texture.
Foliage & Texture:
Ivy (Hedera): trails beautifully, especially with berries.
Rosemary or bay: fragrant and evergreen, they add fullness.
Eucalyptus (if not foraged, available at florists): adds elegant movement.
Blooms & Buds:
Snowdrops (Galanthus): dainty and early.
Primroses (Primula vulgaris): soft, butter-yellow.
Hellebores: jewel-toned, with a graceful nod.
Pussy willow: adds softness and height.
Blossom branches (blackthorn, cherry): just beginning to bloom.
Tip: Always forage responsibly. Take only what you need, and never from protected areas or private land without permission.
You Will Need
Foraged twigs (or a wire wreath base if preferred)
Florist wire or natural jute twine
Secateurs or garden scissors
Optional: moss for texture and moisture retention
Your selection of seasonal blooms and foliage
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Create Your Base
Form a circle with your most pliable twigs (hazel or willow work beautifully). Weave them around one another and secure with wire or twine. Aim for a diameter of 25–35 cm—large enough to make an impact, but still elegant.
2. Add Greenery
Attach bunches of foliage around the base in one direction. Use florist wire to secure each cluster, overlapping slightly to cover the stems. Let some trails fall naturally for a romantic feel.
3. Incorporate Texture
Tuck in branches of pussy willow, curly twigs, or rosemary to break up the green. This adds shape and interest, helping the wreath feel more organic and less structured.
4. Place the Blooms
Now for the stars of the show—your spring flowers. Group them in small, asymmetrical clusters for a more modern, effortless look. Use shorter wire or floral tape to attach the stems without damaging them. Hellebores and primroses work especially well grouped at the lower third of the wreath.
Pro tip: Add fresh blooms just before displaying, or use water vials hidden within the wreath to keep flowers looking their best longer.
5. Final Touches
Step back and assess. Add more ivy or blossom if it needs softening, or remove anything that looks too heavy. The goal is to capture the wildness of the season—not perfection.
Styling & Display Ideas
Front Door: Welcome guests with a burst of seasonal beauty.
Table Centrepiece: Lay the wreath flat and place a hurricane candle or bulb-filled vase in the centre.
Wall or Mantel: Hang with velvet ribbon or rustic twine for a cottagecore aesthetic.
Celebrate the Season, Naturally
An early spring wreath is more than décor—it’s a ritual. A quiet afternoon of foraging, the scent of cut stems and cold earth, the rhythm of crafting something by hand. In a world rushing ahead, this is a gentle way to honour the season’s pace.
So grab your secateurs and step outside. Beauty, quite literally, is just around the hedge.
Inspired to create your own? Share your wreaths with us on Instagram @willowalexandergardens and tag us with #MySpringWreath.
Or, if you’re seeking seasonal styling or floral installations for your home or garden, our design team is here to help.