When we bring a tree indoors for the holidays, our senses stir with the memories of tradition--a fabulous Fraser fir, stately spruce, or majestic pine. Loads of lights, ornaments, and a star are all part of the big picture, with a large portion of the room consumed by this seasonal staple. But there are other ways to enjoy the wide variety of conifers available, on a much smaller scale. Bring these tiny trees indoors, and arrange them atop tables, on stairways, or as a centerpiece to spread garden-style holiday cheer throughout the house.
A Simple Beginning
First, choose decorative containers. Consider a collection of vessels in graduated sizes, each to hold one small tree. They can be simple and elegant, like the copper pots we used, or as easygoing as galvanized buckets.
Add some surprise to your arrangement by using something that might not ordinarily hold plants at all, such as an antique suitcase or a wooden crate. Wrap a gift box in magnificent paper, and fill it with a miniature forest. Select a simple pot in a striking color, and repeat it across a mantel or down the length of a table. To protect furniture from moisture, line the containers with saucers, plastic, or foil.
