Marigold garlands are a fun and easy way to bring fall inside your home.
The flowers themselves hold a long history in many religions, including Buddhism, Catholicism, and Hinduism. One tale suggests that the flowers got their name as it’s what Mary carried in her purse as she traveled with Joseph and Jesus. She was robbed and the thieves found her purse full of golden flowers. Others say that the flowers were left as an offering to the virgin mother. In South and Central American Indigenous cultures, the flowers have an extensive history of medicinal uses as well as being used during Dia del Los Muertos and other ceremonies.
Growing Marigolds
Marigolds are fun and easy to grow! They tolerate light frosts (if you cover them!) and are deer resistant. They also come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Adding a pop of color to your garden is easy and beneficial to other plants, as they also keep buggies at bay.
Making the garland...
You’ll need a few supplies to make the garlands: fishing line, a big needle, and marigolds. I use a 15lb line for my garlands. The largest one I’ve made is only 15 feet, and I felt very secure in my line strength. The above link is for needles from Amazon, although upholstery needles should be available from the local craft store. Get creative with colors and patterns with your marigolds! I grow a variety of blooms, and love seeing how they work together!
Instructions
Cut the fishing line to your desired length, plus about a foot and a half. Tie your loop on one end, passing the end loop through the knot 3 times. This really secures the line tight, and ensures you won’t have the knot come undone. (this needs a photo or better words or both)
Thread your needle and tie a knot to secure the line. This can be a simple knot, as long as it’s secure!
Thread your flowers on through the base. I like to slide them down the line 4-5 at a time as I feel like I can steady them with one hand while my other hand pulls the line.
Once you have reached your desired length, cut the needle and knot off the garland. Tie another slipknot on this end, passing the end loop through the knot three times.
That’s all there is to it! You can hang your garland on doorways, above your bed, or on your altar. To dry, you can either allow it to dry naturally in place, or hang it from the ceiling with the flowers upright.
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