Top 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Christmas Greenery

Shopping for fresh Christmas greenery online has become a holiday tradition for many. With just a few clicks, you can have beautiful garlands and wreaths (and even trees!) delivered right to your door, ready to fill your home with the unmistakable scent of the season.

But while online shopping offers convenience, it also comes with a few easy-to-make missteps. A little preparation can help you avoid the most common fresh greenery buying mistakes—and ensure your home feels festive from the moment your order arrives.

Mistake 1: Overlooking Freshness and Harvest Timing

Freshness is key when purchasing Christmas greenery online. Most shoppers presume that greenery is cut on the day it ships, but this isn't always true. Not verifying freshness guarantees or harvest timing is one of the most frequent mistakes when purchasing greenery.

●       Always seek information on when the greenery is harvested.

●       Select vendors with a freshness guarantee or an explicit return policy in case your purchase is wilted.

●       Inquire with customer service about when they will harvest and ship.

Freshness makes all the difference with live holiday greenery. But not every vendor operates the same way. Some greenery may sit in storage before shipping, while others cut closer to your order date.

What to do:

• Look for companies that clearly state their harvest and shipping process.

• Prioritize sellers who guarantee freshly cut greenery or offer transparent return policies.

• Don’t hesitate to ask customer service when your order will be harvested and shipped.

For example, Wishon Evergreens ensures each order is cut just before shipment. That freshness is what gives real greenery its vibrant color, lasting aroma, and long life indoors or out.

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, customers who receive greenery within three days of harvest report significantly higher satisfaction compared to older stock. If a vendor does not specify the harvest date, ask for this information or consider other options.

Mistake 2: Misjudging Sizing for Your Space

When ordering online, it’s easy to misinterpret product photos. A wreath that looks full and large in a close-up might feel too small on a large double door. Similarly, garlands can look longer than they truly are in a staged photo.

 How to get it right:

• Always check listed measurements.
• Measure your door, mantel, staircase, or banister ahead of time.
• Compare product dimensions to your space before purchasing.

 As a simple rule: a standard front door typically pairs well with a 24-30” wreath. For large double doors or grand entryways, consider 36” or larger.

And for staircases or fireplaces, measure carefully to ensure you order enough garland to drape naturally (ordering more than you may need is a smart choice with garland).

Mistake 3: Skimming Over Shipping Details

Even when you order early, delays can still happen—especially during peak holiday shipping seasons. Weather, carrier slowdowns, and vendor policies can all affect your delivery window.

Before you check out:

• Review estimated shipping and delivery timelines.
• Factor in potential delays when planning your decorating schedule.
• If you’re ordering close to the holidays, select expedited shipping if it’s available.

 Wishon Evergreens provides transparent shipping schedules and tracking updates, so you know exactly when to expect your order.

Mistake 4: Assuming All Christmas Greenery is the Same (Spoiler Alert: It's Not)

Not all greenery is created equal. Between different species and the choice of real vs. artificial, your selection will impact appearance, longevity, and care.

A few key differences:

• Real greenery offers natural fragrance, organic texture, and timeless appeal—but requires care to stay fresh.
• Artificial greenery is reusable and low-maintenance but lacks the sensory experience of real evergreens.
• Different species offer distinct looks:
• Fraser fir holds needles well and offers a classic holiday look.
• Cedar drapes beautifully for mantels and railings.
• White pine creates a soft, flowing appearance with long needles.

 Each variety brings its own charm. Choosing the right one depends on where and how you’ll be displaying your greenery.

Mistake 5: Buying from Sellers Without Reviews or Real Photos

Photos and reviews provide valuable clues about quality and service. Listings with no customer photos or limited feedback can be red flags.

Look for:

• High-quality product images that show actual greenery.
• Verified customer reviews that speak to freshness, shipping experience, and longevity.
• Companies like Wishon Evergreens, who showcase customer-submitted photos or videos and honest reviews to give shoppers a clear sense of what to expect.

BrightLocal reports that 87% of consumers check online reviews before making a purchase. Fresh holiday greenery is no exception.

Mistake 6: Forgetting About Care and Storage

Even the freshest wreath or garland requires some simple care to maintain its beauty throughout the season.

Easy care tips:

• Store greenery in a cool, shaded place until you’re ready to hang or display it.
• Mist with water every few days to help maintain moisture and color.
• Keep away from direct heat sources or sunlight that may dry it out.

Retailers like Wishon Evergreens include clear care instructions with every shipment to help you keep your greenery looking its best all season long.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Holiday Greenery Shopping Experience

A few simple steps can make all the difference in your holiday decorating:

• Start your shopping early to secure the best selection and delivery windows.
• Compare greenery types, sizes, and styles before purchasing.
• Double-check your order details before checkout.
• Contact customer service with any sizing or shipping questions.
• Subscribe to retailer newsletters for special offers and restock alerts.

More shoppers are also seeking sustainable options when it comes to holiday decor. Fresh, locally grown greenery is not only beautiful but environmentally responsible—another reason to feel good about your purchase.

The Bottom Line: Shop Thoughtfully and Enjoy the Season

Ordering holiday greenery online is a wonderful way to bring festive cheer into your home with ease. With just a bit of preparation—choosing trusted sellers, confirming freshness, reviewing sizing, and following care instructions—you can enjoy long-lasting, beautiful decorations that set the tone for the entire season.

Wishon Evergreens makes it simple to order premium, fresh-cut garlands and wreaths crafted from Fraser Fir, White Pine, Boxwood, Cedar, and other seasonal favorites. Sustainably sourced, beautifully made, and delivered to your door—so you can celebrate the holidays with confidence.