How Long Does a Dried Fruit Garland Last? (With My Dried Apple Garland Tutorial)
Dried fruit garlands made with oranges or apples can last through the Christmas season and may be reusable for several years when the fruit is thoroughly dehydrated and stored properly. The biggest factors are moisture, humidity, and exposure to sunlight. Dried orange slices may darken or curl over time, while dried apples also change in appearance as they age. Below, I'm sharing how to care for dried fruit garlands, along with two simple Christmas garland tutorials using dried oranges and apples.
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There's just something about dried fruit garlands that feels like instant Christmas magic. I love the soft glow of twinkle lights shining through the dried apple slices in my kitchen window every December. And the best part? When made with thoroughly dried fruit and stored properly, these beautiful handmade garlands can last beyond a single holiday season.
Whether you're using dried apples like I have for years or classic dried orange slices, the secret to making your garland last is keeping moisture at bay. Display it in a dry spot away from direct heat, then store it carefully in a cool, dry place once the holidays are over.
I'm sharing everything I've learned about making dried fruit garlands last, along with two simple tutorials for creating your own dried apple and orange Christmas garlands. With a little care, they just might become decorations you look forward to bringing out year after year!
At a Glance: How Long Does a Dried Fruit Garland Last?
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- Project: DIY dried fruit Christmas garlands
- Fruit options: Dried orange slices or dried apples
- How long they last: One holiday season or longer with proper drying and storage
- Main supplies: Dried fruit, brown paper-wrapped floral wire, and optional greenery and pinecones
- Method: Space dried fruit slices along floral wire and secure them in place
- Skill level: Easy, beginner-friendly
- Display: Windows, shelves, cabinets, and Christmas trees
- Storage: Cool, dry location away from moisture
- Result: Delicate, vintage-inspired Christmas garlands that can be reused if they remain in good condition
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Jump to:
- At a Glance: How Long Does a Dried Fruit Garland Last?
- How long does dried fruit garland actually last?
- How long does a dried orange garland last?
- The difference between dried apples and dried citrus for garlands
- Should you seal dried fruit garlands?
- DIY dried fruit garland tutorial
- Step-by-step instructions
- Where to hang a dried fruit garland
- Frequently asked questions
- More holiday inspiration
How long does dried fruit garland actually last?
A well-made dried fruit garland can last through the Christmas season and may be enjoyed for several years when properly dried, displayed, and stored. Whether you're using dried orange slices, apples, or other fruit, the biggest factor in how long your garland lasts is moisture.
Thoroughly dried fruit holds its shape and color much better than fruit that still contains excess moisture. Over time, the slices may darken, curl, or become more brittle, but that doesn't necessarily mean your garland needs to be replaced.
Start with quality dried fruit
The secret to a long-lasting garland begins with thoroughly dried fruit. You can dry orange or apple slices yourself using an oven or dehydrator, or purchase pre-dried slices to save time.
Whichever method you choose, make sure the fruit is dry throughout before assembling your garland. Any remaining moisture can lead to softening, mold, or spoilage, especially in humid conditions.
Avoid direct heat and sunlight
When hanging your dried fruit garland, choose a spot away from:
- Heating vents
- Fireplaces with active fires
- Strong, direct sunlight
- Areas with excess moisture or steam
Heat and sunlight can fade the fruit and cause the slices to become brittle, while humidity can make them soften or deteriorate. A dry indoor location is your best bet for keeping your garland looking beautiful throughout the season.
Store your garland carefully between seasons
At the end of the holidays, gently remove your garland and inspect the fruit before putting it away.
Here's the best way to store it:
- Make sure every slice is completely dry before storing.
- Place the garland in a clean, airtight container, with tissue paper between delicate sections if needed.
- Keep it in a cool, dark, dry location, such as a closet.
- Avoid damp basements, garages, and attics where temperatures and humidity fluctuate.
- Check the fruit for mold, unusual softness, or insects before displaying it again next Christmas.
| Condition | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Displayed indoors in a cool, dry room | Can remain decorative throughout the holiday season |
| Displayed in strong sunlight | Colors may fade and fruit slices may become brittle |
| Displayed in a humid room | Fruit may soften or absorb moisture, increasing the risk of mold |
| Stored in a cool, dry, dark location | May remain suitable for reuse over several Christmas seasons |
| Stored in a damp basement or attic | Greater risk of moisture damage, mold, and deterioration |
The bottom line: Thorough drying and proper storage give your dried fruit garland the best chance of lasting for years. Before reusing it each Christmas, inspect the slices for moisture, mold, or signs of insects.
How long does a dried orange garland last?
A dried orange garland can last through the entire Christmas season and may last for several years if the orange slices are thoroughly dehydrated and stored properly. Many people reuse their dried orange decorations year after year, although their appearance naturally changes over time.
One of the things I love about dried oranges is their beautiful, translucent appearance, especially when sunlight or twinkle lights shine through the slices. As they age, the oranges may deepen in color, curl slightly at the edges, or become more brittle. These changes are normal and don't necessarily mean the garland has gone bad.
The biggest concern with dried orange garlands is moisture. If the slices weren't completely dried before stringing, or they've absorbed humidity while hanging or in storage, they can soften and eventually develop mold.
Before reusing your dried orange garland each Christmas, check for:
- Mold: Fuzzy or powdery growth on the slices.
- Soft or sticky areas: Possible signs that the oranges have absorbed moisture or weren't fully dried.
- Insects: Evidence of pests or damage during storage.
If you notice mold or other signs of spoilage, discard the affected decorations.
To make this dried orange garland please visit my How to Make Dried Orange Garland (With Star Anise)
My tip: You don't need to replace your dried orange garland just because the slices have darkened or curled. As long as they're still thoroughly dry and free of spoilage, those natural changes can add to their old-fashioned Christmas charm.
The difference between dried apples and dried citrus for garlands
Both dried apples and citrus fruits make beautiful Christmas garlands, but each creates a slightly different look and may change in appearance over time.
Dried apples: Apple slices have a soft, natural color and a delicate, old-world appearance. I love using them for Scandinavian-inspired Christmas decorating, especially when paired with greenery, pinecones, and twinkle lights. Properly dried apples can hold their shape beautifully for multiple holiday seasons.
Dried citrus slices (oranges, grapefruit, and lemons): Citrus slices bring warmer, richer colors to Christmas garlands. Their translucent centers are especially pretty when sunlight or twinkle lights shine through them. Over time, the slices may darken, curl at the edges, or become more brittle.
Which lasts longer? Both dried apples and citrus garlands can be reused for multiple seasons when thoroughly dehydrated and stored in a cool, dry place. The quality of the drying process and storage conditions are more important than the type of fruit you choose.
Ultimately, I'd choose based on the look you love most. Apples create a softer, more understated garland, while dried oranges add that beautiful golden glow that's become so popular in Christmas decorating.
Should you seal dried fruit garlands?
If you want your dried fruit garland to last more than one season, you can seal the fruit slices to help them hold their shape and color longer. This step is optional, but it does make a difference - especially for citrus, which tends to fade or curl over time.
Here's what to know:
Why sealing works
Even fully dried fruit still contains a tiny bit of natural moisture. Over time, humidity in the air can cause the slices to soften, curl, or discolor. A light seal creates a gentle barrier that slows that process down.
What to use
For decorative projects, I've had good results with water-based matte polycrylic. It's a clear protective finish that creates a subtle coating without the glossy appearance of some other finishes.
My experience: I once sealed whole fresh pears with matte polycrylic for fall decorating, and they lasted much longer than my untreated pears. You can see those pears in the photograph below.
That experience made me interested in using a protective finish on other natural decorations. However, dried fruit slices are different from whole pears, and I haven't tested whether polycrylic actually extends the life of a dried orange or apple garland.
For that reason, I recommend thorough drying and proper storage as the first steps toward keeping dried fruit garlands looking beautiful.
Should You Seal Dried Fruit Slices?
Personally, I prefer leaving dried fruit slices uncoated for their natural, translucent appearance. If you're considering a protective coating, check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure it's suitable for your project. Polycrylic is primarily designed for interior wood surfaces, not food preservation.
Any fruit treated with polycrylic should be considered strictly decorative and should never be eaten or used in tea, simmer pots, or other food preparations.
Bonus Storage Tip: A small packet of fresh, enclosed silica gel desiccant may help control moisture inside a sealed storage container. Keep packets intact and away from children and pets. Most importantly, make sure the fruit is completely dry before packing it away.
DIY dried fruit garland tutorial
Faux Christmas greens, dried apples, mini pinecones, and twinkle lights! What is not to love about this sweet, easy-to-make kitchen garland? The base of this garland is a premade wire wrapped in brown floral tape making it a snap to put it together. The brown wire also gives it a beautiful and delicate natural look.
Supplies:
Note: this supply list is for a 50" garland that fits a 36" wide window. To determine the exact amount of supplies for your space visit "How to measure your wire" below.
- 60" of Wire wrapped in brown floral tape
- 6-8 pcs Mini Pinecones
- 12 pcs Dried apple slices
- 1 stem Faux cedar
- 5 strands of Raffia (or your ribbon of choice)
- 1 set of Twinkle lights (with batteries)
Tools:
How to measure your wire
- Window Width:
- Measure the width of your kitchen window where you intend to hang the garland.
- Draping Length:
- Decide how much you want the garland to drape down on either side of the window. This adds a decorative touch.
- Garland Style:
- Consider how closely or loosely you want to space the faux greens, pinecones, and apple slices along the garland. Leaving more space between elements will make a dainty garland, while clustering the items closer together will make a shorter, fuller garland. Keep in mind each item requires a wrap of wire so a dense garland will need more wire.
- Additional Items:
- If you plan to add extra items or twists along the length, account for each addition when measuring the wire.
- Safety Margin:
- Add an extra length for safety and adjustment, usually around 10 inches. This ensures you have enough wire for securing and draping without falling short.
By combining these measurements, you'll have a wire length tailored to your specific space, style, and design preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Gather Supplies:
Collect faux greens, brown wrapped wire, raffia, scissors, pinecones, dried apples, and any other items mentioned in the instructions.
- Measure the Wire:
Determine the desired length of the garland, adding an extra 10 inches for wrapping and draping.
Note: this supply list above is for a 50" garland that fits a 36" wide window. - Make a Loop:
On one end of the wire, create a loop and twist the tails together.
- Start with the Greens:
Measure 2 inches from the loop, then wrap the wire around the stem of the faux greens. Ensure to catch one of the branches while wrapping.
- Wrap Pinecones:
Measure another 2 inches, then wrap the wire around the pinecones by running it under the top layer of the pinecone's leaves and twisting.
- Add Apples:
Pierce the top of two apples with a toothpick or nail. Feed the wire through the apples from the end without the loop and place them 2 inches away from the pinecones, twisting the wire.
- Tie Raffia on Greens:
Repeat the process with greens, pinecones, and apples until the garland is full. Once all items are placed, tie a small bow of raffia on each piece of greens.
- Hang and String Lights:
Once the garland is complete, make a second loop for hanging. Hang the garland and weave twinkle lights through it for a festive look.
Notes:
- This supply list is for a 50" garland that fits a 36" wide window.
- You can use dried orange slices or other citrus fruit instead of apple slices.
Easy Dried Orange Garland Variation
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Love the warm, golden look of dried orange slices? You can use the same simple wire technique from my apple garland to create a beautiful dried orange Christmas garland!
Start with fully dried orange slices, either homemade or purchased, and a spool of brown paper-wrapped floral wire.
- Prepare your wire: Measure the length you need and create a small hanging loop at one end.
- Add the oranges: Carefully pierce each dried orange slice near the rind, then thread it onto the wire.
- Secure and space: Position the orange where you want it and give the wire a small twist to hold it in place. Continue along the garland, leaving space between the slices.
- Hang and enjoy: Create a loop at the opposite end, hang your garland, and weave in battery-operated LED twinkle lights if desired.
My tip: For my garland, I added whole star anise for a little extra texture and natural charm. You can also tuck in sprigs of Christmas greenery, add bits of ribbon, or keep it simple with just the dried oranges. It's an easy project to make your own, and I especially love how the sunlight shines through the translucent orange slices when it's displayed across a kitchen window.
Where to hang a dried fruit garland
One of my favorite things about dried fruit garlands is how easily they fit into Christmas decorating. Whether you love the warm glow of dried oranges or the softer look of dried apples, these delicate garlands add a beautiful, old-fashioned touch without overwhelming a space.
Here are some of my favorite places to display them:
- Across a kitchen window: This is where I hang my dried apple garland every Christmas! The natural light highlights the fruit slices, and a strand of tiny twinkle lights makes it especially pretty in the evening.
- Above a fireplace mantel: Drape your garland along the mantel for a simple, natural Christmas accent. Keep it well away from heat and open flames.
- Across kitchen cabinets or open shelving: A delicate garland adds a festive touch without taking up valuable counter space. Just avoid areas exposed to cooking steam.
- Along the top of a china cabinet: Let a dried fruit garland drape gently across the top of a cabinet for a charming, vintage-inspired holiday look.
- Across a living room window or curtain rod: A simple strand of dried oranges looks beautiful with natural light shining through it and complements soft, cozy living room decor.
- Along a dining room shelf or sideboard: Pair your garland with greenery and other natural decorations to complement your Christmas table. It looks especially lovely near a DIY Advent wreath centerpiece, while keeping the dried fruit away from candle flames.
- On your Christmas tree: A loosely draped fruit garland brings an old-fashioned charm to your tree. It's a lovely finishing touch when you're decorating a Christmas tree with natural materials and simple ornaments.
My tip: Dried fruit garlands look especially beautiful when they're allowed to drape naturally rather than being pulled tightly. Choose a dry indoor location, and let the fruit, greenery, and twinkle lights do the decorating!
Frequently asked questions
When your garland is fully dried and displayed indoors, it should not attract bugs. The key is to make sure the fruit is completely dehydrated before assembling the garland. If there is still moisture in the fruit, it can become sticky and appealing to pests. If you are drying your own fruit, make sure the slices feel firm and lightweight, not soft or tacky. For long term storage, place the dried fruit in an airtight container with silica gel packs.
Storing your dried fruit garland is easy! Store it in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dark place. A closet, storage bin under a bed, or a cabinet works well. Add a small piece of parchment or tissue paper to prevent delicate pieces from rubbing against one another. Avoid storing in basements, garages, or attics where moisture and temperature can fluctuate.
Dried fruit decorations typically last several seasons when stored properly. Commercially dried fruit can last the longest because it begins with a lower moisture content. Homemade dried fruit garlands usually stay beautiful for 1-3 seasons, depending on how thoroughly the fruit was dried and how it is stored.
Fruits that are naturally firm and low in moisture hold their shape best. Dried apples, oranges, grapefruit, and limes are all great options. Commercially dried apple slices tend to last the longest because they are dried evenly and consistently. If your garland will hang near a sunny window or in a warm kitchen, apple slices usually keep their color and texture the best.
More holiday inspiration
Exploring the art of crafting holiday decor with dried fruits is a great way to infuse your home with warmth and seasonal charm. As you admire your beautifully crafted garlands and wreaths this holiday season, consider the joy of preserving this tradition for the next year. The longevity of dried fruit decorations ensures that your efforts will be a lasting source of delight, providing a timeless and sustainable element to your holiday decor for seasons to come.
