Twining vines require support, so they must be situated near low walls, trellises or fences. Do not allow bittersweet to grow on the side of a building or around a young tree which it may strangle as it grows. These vines are useful in the landscape to screen unattractive elements such as dead stumps, piles of rocks, anchor fences and similar features.
Harvesting and Drying Bittersweet:
Both types of bittersweet are useful for indoor decorations in the fall after their leaves have dropped and their berries are on display. Unlike the berries of oriental bittersweet that crumble and disintegrate when they dry out, American bittersweet berries persist for years and can be reused for several seasons. Clip branches of bittersweet and bring them indoors to air dry. Incorporate them into dried wreaths and arrangements. After drying, bittersweet branches can be used to make long-lasting decor, such as wreaths, garlands, or centerpieces, that brings a touch of nature indoors.
Decorating with Bittersweet
Bittersweet vines and branches make excellent choices for fall decorating, especially as dried arrangements. Use them to create rustic garlands or wreaths that add a seasonal touch to any room. Simply string together dried bittersweet branches for a garland that can be draped over mantels, doorways, or tables. Their vibrant orange and red berries provide a striking, natural accent that pairs well with other autumn decor.
Faux Bittersweet Options
For those who want the look of bittersweet without the upkeep, faux bittersweet branches are a great alternative. Faux branches capture the vibrant colors of real bittersweet and work well in wreaths, garlands, and other decorative arrangements, providing a long-lasting, reusable option for your home decor.
Tips for Making a Bittersweet Garland
If you're interested in crafting, creating a bittersweet garland is a fun DIY project. Take dried bittersweet branches and attach them to a sturdy string or wire to form a beautiful garland. This garland can be used indoors to celebrate the fall season or to decorate for Thanksgiving, bringing a bit of nature's beauty inside.
