DIY festive foliage - that's a real snip!

I FIND Christmas really begins once the house fills with fragrance, from spiced drinks on the hob and something delicious in the oven to greenery gathered from the garden.

- DAVID DOMONEY

MERRY: Bright berries PATIENT: Mistletoe CHARM: Wreaths

When borders feel bare, evergreens step into the spotlight. With a few hardworking plants, you can snip natural decorations in early December for outdoors, and from mid-December for inside.

Holly's glossy leaves and berries instantly say Christmas. Variegated forms such as Ilex aquifolium ‘Argentea Marginata’ bring cream-edged foliage, brightening the dullest day.

Plant holly in moist but well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade. It works well as a hedge, specimen shrub or mixed border plant.