30-Minute "Evergreen" Christmas Tree Project

30-Minute, 5-Foot "Evergreen"

Christmas Tree Project

In 30 minutes, you can create this five-foot tall artificial "evergreen" Christmas tree from materials that are readily available in many households. Here's how:

STEP 1. Select one regular-sized garden tomato cage that you retired for the winter. Turn the cage upside down and bind the sharp "bottom" tines with string, forming the top of the tree.

STEP 2. Take a strand of artificial garland and wrap the wire end around the circular base of the cage, where it intersects with a vertical support.








STEP 3. Wrap garland around the cage, taking care to avoid gaps in the garland. Tie ends of the garland to cage.




STEP 4. At the top of the tree, form the end of the garland into the "tip" of the tree.






STEP 5. Finish by hanging lights, ornaments, and other decorations. Set inside a round decorative planter to anchor the tree. Use the tree inside or out.

You can also use the tree as a winter cover for delicate plants or deer protection. Merry Christmas!

Courtesy of Mark A. Van Dyke, markavandyke@yahoo.com