Manzanita Tree Tutorial

I’ve always wanted a potted tree for my home to decorate throughout the year. Something sturdy to dress up for different holidays and special occassions… I recently saw one online for $150 (plus shipping costs) and thought, “There has GOT to be a more affordable option out there!”

After some research and a lot of experimenting, I found an affordable (and surprisingly, easy!) way to make one. I’d like to present to you: a Manzanita Tree tutorial!

If you can set aside $20 and 1-hour, I’m confident you can make one yourself! Gather your supplies and let’s make a tree!

Materials Needed:

Flower pot
Acrylic paint
Paintbrush
Styrofoam ball
Branches
Garden clippers
Plaster of Paris

Step One: Select the right size flower pot. Square pots have greater stability, so if you decide to get a round pot (like I did), make sure it’s 6″ in diameter or larger. Once you find the right flower pot, paint the outside with acrylic paint. (Depending on the color you use, you may need two coats.) Let the paint dry thoroughly.

Step Two: Paint the inside lip of the flower pot as well. You won’t see the entire inside of the flower pot once you’re finished, so you only need to paint 1″-2″ down from the top. Set aside to dry.

Step Three: Select the branches you’d like to use. I prefer Manzanita branches because they are the strongest and most durable branches available – perfect for home décor! Place your styrofoam ball into your painted pot. Starting with the largest branch, push the stem into your styrofoam ball. Depending on the thickness of the stem, this step can take a little muscle. Try to get the stem at least half way into the styrofoam ball.

Step Four: Repeat step three with your smaller branches until you have a full looking tree. You may need to use a pair of garden clippers to trim away access branches to get the desired effect. (Note: Remember, Manzanita branches are VERY strong. Be careful when trimming branches.)

Step Five: Mix up your Plaster of Paris. (I ended up using about 1 pound of plaster mix.) Carefully read the directions and follow all instructions – especially if you’ve never used plaster before! Pour your plaster mixture into your flower pot. Cover the styrofoam ball and get in between the branches. I filled my pot until it was 1/2″ from the top edge. Then I used a plastic spoon to move the plaster around, trying to get it as flat and level as possible.

Now let your plaster dry for 24-hours. NOTE: Plaster can get hot while it’s setting. Do not touch the plaster while it’s drying and wash your hands thoroughly after mixing and pouring. Never touch the plaster with your bare hands.