How to Properly Care for a Grapevine Wreath or Tree

Wild grapevine grows profusely in the woods around our area. My siblings and I enjoyed hours of play climbing and swinging on grapevines around the homeplace. Fun for kids, wild grapevines are anything but good for the woods. The vines choke out small trees and other valuable growth. Grapevines can become so thick and heavy that they can break off tree tops and branches. During wildfires, grapevines spread the flames quickly from tree to tree. That's why it's good that grapevines are cut when they're young and turned into craft items. Read this informational article and learn how to properly care for a grapevine wreath or tree!

Introduction
Grapevine crafts have held their popularity for years. I have crafty friends who make grapevine wreaths and trees and sell them for hefty profits. I often see them at craft shows- even at garage and yard sales! Both grapevine wreaths and trees aren't difficult to make. Both items require winding and securing the flexible vine around a base. They are time-consuming, though.

Learn Something New Everyday
In all the grapevine wreaths and trees I've seen, I have yet to see a care tag on one. So, you don't think they require any special care, right? That's what I thought... until I visited a flower shop recently. They had small grapevine wreaths on display. While admiring the wreaths, I told the sales person that the problem with grapevine trees and wreaths is, they don't last very long. Before you know it, they start to look faded and, well, kind of ratty. She stopped and looked at me kind of wide-eyed. Then, I got a lesson.

How to Properly Care for a Grapevine Wreath or Tree

1. Regular Cleaning
To keep it free from dust and dirt, grapevine needs to be lightly dusted or vacuumed, depending on how soiled it becomes.

2. After the Grapevine Dries, It Needs to Be Sealed
A year after the grapevine has been cut and turned into a wreath or tree, it needs to be cleaned. Then, it needs to be sprayed with a waterproof sealer. The sealer will help protect the grapevine from fading and other damage, especially if you want to set it outside.

3. Grapevine Needs Further Protection From the Elements
After it's been sealed, you can hang a grapevine wreath on your door or set a grapevine tree outside. However, both items will last longer if they're not subjected to bright sunlight, heat, cold, rain, snow and other elements. The best areas to place them in are under roofed porches, patios and decks. Even if you choose to decorate the inside of your house with a grapevine wreath or tree, don't place them where they'll receive direct sunlight.

4. Store Your Grapevine Wreath or Tree
To properly care for a grapevine wreath or tree, you'll need to store it correctly too. First, dust or vaccum it clean. Then, place the wreath in a trash bag, making sure not to crush or bend it. Carefully place a trash bag over the tree, and you're ready to store them in a cool, dark, dry place.