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29 Best Christmas Porch Decor Ideas to Beautify Your Home 2025

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Decorations don’t just impress guests; it creates memories and sets your mood for the festive joy.

Am sure you might recall visiting your grandmother’s house as a child, those simple wreath in the porch and the scent of fresh pine greeting you even before you reach the door is something you can never forget.

So, decorating your porch for Christmas isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s about the emotions it stirs and the sense of warmth it conveys long before you step inside.

You don’t need enormous budget to make it nostalgic, instead simply hanging a handmade wreath, miniature tree beside the steps or a draping garland around your door frame can transform your porch to a cozy holiday haven.

Quick Christmas Porch Décor Ideas Tips

Start with a Statement Wreath

Your front door sets the tone, so start with a standout wreath. A lush evergreen base feels classic and cozy. Add ribbons, ornaments, or pinecones to suit your holiday style. Reuse the same wreath each year—just switch up the accents for a fresh, festive look without spending extra.

Frame Your Doorway with Garland and Lights

Nothing says Christmas quite like garland glowing with twinkling lights. Drape it around your doorway to create a warm, welcoming frame. Use hooks or command strips to hold it securely, and tuck in ribbons or ornaments for color and texture. By evening, your porch will sparkle like a cozy holiday postcard.

Add Festive Touches at Ground Level

Give some love to the space below eye level. A few lanterns filled with candles, greenery, or pinecones can make a big impact.

Try setting out winter planters or even a small sled decorated with faux presents or ornaments.

A festive doormat ties everything together and makes guests feel welcome before they even step inside.

Stick to a Simple Color Palett

Choose a few colors and repeat them across your décor to keep things cohesive. Red and gold always feel classic, while deep greens with creams or wood tones give a more natural look.

Carry those shades through your wreath, ribbons, and planters so everything feels connected rather than cluttered.

Use What You Already Have

You don’t need to buy all-new decorations to make your porch shine. Dig through your holiday bins—you probably have ribbons, ornaments, or lanterns that can be repurposed.

Mixing old favorites with a few new touches creates that warm, collected look that feels more personal than anything straight off a store shelf.

29 Best Christmas Porch Decor Ideas to Beautify Your Home

Nothing captures the holiday spirit quite like a beautifully decorated porch. It’s the first thing guests see and the perfect spot to set the tone for your home’s festive charm.

Whether your style leans classic and cozy or modern and minimal, a thoughtfully styled porch makes every home feel warm and welcoming through the season.

From twinkling lights and evergreen garlands to vintage sleds and glowing lanterns, there are endless ways to bring Christmas cheer right to your doorstep.

Here are 29 of the best Christmas porch décor ideas to help you transform your entryway into a joyful, picture-perfect holiday scene.

1. Classic Evergreen Wreath with Red Velvet Bow

A traditional evergreen wreath instantly sets a festive tone for your porch. Choose a full, lush base of pine, fir, or cedar and finish it with a classic red velvet bow for timeless elegance. Add small touches like berries, pinecones, or gold ornaments for texture and color.

Keep decorations balanced—simple yet eye-catching—and position the bow slightly off-center for a more natural, effortless look. This easy addition creates a warm, welcoming feel that never goes out of holiday style.​

Also Read: 23 Outdoor Halloween Decoration Ideas

2. Pre-Lit Garland Draped Around Door Frame

Nothing frames your entryway better than garland adorned with twinkling lights. Use pre-lit strands for convenience or weave battery-powered LEDs through plain garland for a personalized touch. Secure with sturdy hooks or outdoor strips, and add fresh evergreen sprigs for depth and that classic pine scent.

Combining durable faux garland with real greenery gives the best of both worlds—long-lasting beauty and natural fragrance. Drape it in gentle curves rather than pulling it tight for a relaxed, elegant look that feels effortlessly festive and welcoming.

3. Festive Lanterns with Evergreen and Berries

Transform simple lanterns into festive Christmas centerpieces by filling them with greenery, red berries, and pillar candles. Black or copper lanterns provide striking contrast against vibrant foliage. Use battery-operated candles for safety, especially around children or pets.

Add evergreen sprigs, holly branches, and berry clusters around the candle base, securing them with floral foam if needed. The candlelight casts magical shadows in the evening, creating a cozy atmosphere. Position lanterns at varying heights—on steps, by the door, or hanging from hooks—for layered visual interest and a warm, inviting porch display.

4. Vintage Sled Display with Winter Greenery

A rustic wooden sled adds nostalgic charm to any Christmas porch, evoking cozy winter wonderlands. Place it against a wall or beside your front door and fill it with evergreen boughs, pinecones, and a plaid blanket for a warm, cabin-like feel. Vintage sleds from flea markets or antique shops provide authentic character that new pieces can’t replicate.

Layer textures for visual interest—smooth pinecones, soft evergreen needles, and cozy wool or flannel blankets. Add vintage ice skates or old-fashioned mittens for storytelling touches. This display is perfect for homes with rustic, farmhouse, or cabin-style architecture.

5. Christmas Doormat with Festive Message

A festive doormat welcomes guests and sets the tone for your porch while keeping dirt and snow from entering your home. Choose mats with classic Christmas messages like “Joy,” “Welcome,” or “Merry Christmas” in colors that complement your overall décor. Durable coir mats with red and green designs hold up well outdoors throughout the season.

Place the mat as the foundation of your display and build around it with planters, lanterns, or other decorations. Ensure it’s large enough to function properly without overwhelming the entrance. Weather-resistant materials help it stay cheerful and inviting through snow, rain, and muddy boots.

6. Wrapped Gift Box Displays

Create the look of presents on your porch by making oversized gift boxes from cardboard and covering them with weather-resistant materials. Use outdoor fabric, vinyl, or laminated paper in festive colors, and top each box with large wired ribbon bows that withstand winter weather. Stack boxes of different sizes for visual interest and a playful, layered effect.

These faux gifts add whimsy while being fully customizable to your porch and color scheme. Fill lightweight boxes with crumpled paper to keep them steady, and secure larger boxes with weights or ties. Refresh the ribbons each year for a new festive look without starting from scratch.​

7. Fresh Christmas Tree in Decorative Pot

A small fresh Christmas tree by your front door brings the magic of the forest to your porch. Use a tabletop tree for smaller spaces or a 3–4 foot tree for larger porches, planting it in a decorative pot that suits your home’s style—terra cotta, galvanized buckets, or wicker all work beautifully.

Decorate with outdoor-safe ornaments, battery-powered lights, and a weather-resistant topper. Keep decorations secure against winter winds. After the season, plant the tree in your yard to create a lasting memory and a gift that continues giving year after year.

8. Plaid Ribbon and Bow Accents

Add the cozy charm of plaid to your porch décor using weather-resistant ribbon in classic Christmas colors. Traditional red and green works beautifully, while navy and gold offer a more refined look. Choose wired ribbon that holds its shape, even on windy days.

Use plaid ribbons to tie bows on lanterns, weave through garlands, or make statement bows for wreaths. Repeat the same pattern throughout your display for cohesion, mixing with solid-colored ribbons for balance. Vary ribbon widths to add depth and visual interest, ensuring your plaid accents feel intentional, warm, and festive.

Check this: 12 Low Budget Backyard Designs with Gravel

9. Pine Cone and Berry Clusters

Use natural elements from your yard or craft store to create organic, textured Christmas displays. Pine cones of various sizes can be wired onto wreaths, garlands, or placed in baskets with real or artificial berries, creating a striking contrast between rough and smooth textures.

Attach pine cones to garlands or wreaths with floral wire, wrapping securely around each base. Seal them with clear acrylic to preserve their shape through the season and prevent opening from humidity changes. Arrange pine cones in odd numbers for a natural, balanced appearance that adds rustic charm to your porch décor.​

10. Vintage Milk Can with Greenery

Repurpose old milk cans, watering cans, or galvanized buckets as charming planters for your Christmas greenery. These vintage containers add rustic character while holding evergreen boughs, holly, and red berry stems, creating a display that feels fresh from a winter walk.

Arrange containers at different heights—on the ground, plant stands, or porch railings—to build visual layers. The weathered look of authentic vintage pieces adds authenticity, but distressed new containers can achieve the same nostalgic charm. This simple touch combines practicality with timeless seasonal appeal.​

11. String Light Canopy Over Entrance

Create a magical overhead display by stringing warm white or soft yellow LED lights in gentle curves above your porch and front door. Secure them with cup hooks or eye screws to ceilings, eaves, or columns, forming a canopy that turns your entrance into a cozy winter wonderland. Battery-powered LEDs with timers make setup simple and hassle-free.

For added depth, layer different light styles—combine mini strands with larger globe or Edison-style bulbs. Avoid straight lines; instead, drape lights in soft swoops and curves for an organic, inviting look. Warm white tones ensure a cozy, festive atmosphere that welcomes guests.​

12. Winter Planter Arrangements

Transform large planters into eye-catching winter displays using evergreens, decorative stems, and seasonal accents. Choose planters that are proportionate to your porch and frost-resistant in colder climates. Layer different greenery—feathery cedar, structured pine, and delicate fir—for texture and fullness.

Add height with branches like red-twig dogwood, birch, or pussy willow, and tuck in berries or small ornaments for color. Finish with a light dusting of artificial snow for a magical touch. Position planters symmetrically for a formal look or asymmetrically for a relaxed, natural feel.

13. Rustic Wooden Christmas Signs

Handcrafted wooden signs with festive messages bring personality and charm to your porch décor. Use reclaimed wood and stencils to paint words like “JOY,” “NOEL,” “BELIEVE,” or your family name with weather-resistant paint. Distress the edges for a vintage, well-loved look that feels timeless.

Select fonts that suit your home’s style—script for traditional, block for modern, or rustic stencil for farmhouse charm. Seal signs with outdoor polyurethane for durability, and consider adding LED backlighting or string lights for nighttime visibility. Place them where they’re easily seen without overpowering other decorations.

14. Cozy Outdoor Furniture Styling

Transform your porch furniture into part of your Christmas décor by adding seasonal pillows, throws, and small decorative touches. Outdoor seating becomes a cozy vignette that invites guests to pause and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Use weather-resistant fabrics in classic Christmas colors or patterns that complement your overall display.

Mix textures—faux fur throws, wool pillows, and smooth outdoor fabrics—for visual and tactile appeal. Add small details like battery-operated lanterns, a thermos of cocoa, or a basket of wrapped gifts to make the space feel lived-in and welcoming. Even unused furniture contributes warmth and charm to your holiday porch.

15. Hanging Basket Winter Gardens

Suspend evergreen arrangements from porch ceilings, eaves, or plant hooks to add vertical interest and make the most of smaller spaces. Use sturdy hanging baskets lined with moss or coconut fiber, then fill with potting soil, fresh evergreens, winterberry branches, and trailing ivy. The cascading greenery creates layered beauty that draws the eye upward.

Place baskets where they’re visible but don’t obstruct foot traffic. Group several at varying heights for greater impact, and let trailing elements like ivy or garland spill over the edges to soften the look and add movement to your display.​

16. Cardinal and Winter Bird Themes

Incorporate the charm of winter birds into your porch décor with artificial cardinals perched among greenery, bird-themed ornaments, or small seasonal birdhouses. The bright red of cardinals against deep green evergreens creates striking contrast and evokes peaceful winter mornings. Place the artificial birds naturally throughout your displays for a lifelike effect.

Enhance the scene with small bird feeders filled with seed to attract real birds, creating a dynamic, ever-changing display. Use high-quality artificial birds with realistic colors and poses to make your porch feel alive and full of seasonal charm.​

Check this: 30 Fall Fireplace Mantel Decor Ideas to Warm Up Your Home

17. Icy Blue and Silver Accents

Move beyond traditional red and green by embracing a winter palette of icy blues, silvers, and whites, evoking the crisp beauty of frost and snow. This scheme works especially well on white or gray homes, giving your porch a contemporary, elegant feel. Use blue and silver ribbons, ornaments, and accents throughout your greenery for a cohesive look.

Add metallic touches like silver pinecones, frosted branches, and blue glass ornaments that catch and reflect light. Pair with white lights instead of warm yellow to maintain a cool, sparkling winter wonderland vibe that feels fresh and modern.

18. Tiered Display with Steps and Levels

Create visual interest on your porch by building tiered displays using steps, plant stands, and containers of varying heights. This approach works especially well on deep porches, letting you layer decorations at different distances from your front door and use the porch’s natural architecture to your advantage.

Start with larger items like planters or small trees at floor level, medium pieces like lanterns and signs on steps, and smaller details like ornaments or bows at eye level. Layering in this way keeps your display full and engaging from all angles, while spreading elements across tiers ensures a balanced, uncluttered look.

19. Magnolia Leaf Garland

Incorporate glossy magnolia leaves into your Christmas décor for a sophisticated Southern touch. Their deep green color and silvery undersides add elegant contrast to traditional pine and fir greenery, and properly conditioned leaves can stay fresh for weeks. Create garlands by wiring individual leaves to a flexible base, or use pre-made magnolia garlands from florists.

Layer magnolia with evergreen garlands for texture, or use the leaves as a base for wreaths accented with berries and ribbons. The large, smooth leaves provide a luxurious contrast to fine pine needles and hold up well throughout the season, adding lasting beauty to your porch display.

20. Candy Cane Pathway Markers

Line your walkway or porch steps with oversized candy cane decorations to create a fun, festive path to your front door. Use outdoor-ready plastic candy canes or make your own with painted PVC pipe in red and white stripes. The repeated pattern draws attention and adds playful holiday cheer.

Space them evenly and secure them to withstand wind and weather. For evening magic, try solar-powered candy cane lights or wrap them with battery-powered LEDs. This whimsical display is perfect for families with children and adds a joyful touch visible from the street.

21. Miniature Village Scene

Create a charming miniature Christmas village on a porch table, wide railing, or dedicated display area using small buildings, figurines, and LED lights. This detailed scene becomes a focal point, inviting guests to take a closer look and enjoy the story it tells. Add artificial snow, tiny evergreen trees, and miniature accessories to complete the winter wonderland feel.

Choose a theme—Victorian, modern, or rustic mountain—and select pieces that harmonize together. Use battery-powered LEDs to light windows and street lamps for a magical glow at night. Protect the village from weather with a clear acrylic cover or place it under a covered porch area.​

22. Poinsettia Planters in Festive Containers

Arrange live poinsettias in decorative containers that match your porch’s style and color scheme. Keep the plants in their original pots inside larger containers to protect them and make replacement easier. Choose full, vibrant blooms with healthy foliage for maximum impact.

Group poinsettias in odd numbers and vary the heights for a natural, layered look. Surround them with evergreen branches or garland to tie them into your overall display. While red is classic, white, pink, or burgundy varieties offer a fresh twist. Place them where they get light but stay sheltered from harsh winds and extreme temperatures.

Also Read: 13 Front Yard Fall Flower Bed Ideas

23. Burlap and Natural Texture Elements

Incorporate burlap ribbons, bags, and fabric into your porch décor to add rustic texture and warm, earthy tones that balance brighter Christmas colors. Burlap pairs beautifully with farmhouse, cottage, or rustic homes, complementing natural materials like wood and stone. Use it for bows, wrap planters, or create simple sacks filled with greenery.

Its rough, natural texture contrasts nicely with smooth ornaments, glossy ribbons, and sleek containers. Layer burlap with twine, rope, or wooden accents for a cohesive, organic look. Choose weather-resistant burlap for outdoor use or treat regular burlap with fabric protector spray to ensure it lasts all season.

24. Illuminated Wreaths and Garlands

Enhance your wreaths and garlands with battery-powered LED lights for a magical evening glow that welcomes guests and boosts curb appeal. Opt for lights with timers so your displays turn on automatically each night. Warm white lights offer cozy charm, while multicolored strands add playful festivity.

Weave the lights throughout the greenery for even illumination and a polished look. Choose outdoor-rated, weather-resistant LEDs, and consider ones with remote controls to adjust brightness or change patterns from the comfort of your home. This simple addition makes your porch shine long after the sun sets.

25. Vintage Truck or Wagon Display

Incorporate toy trucks, wagons, or sleds as charming vessels for your greenery, evoking the nostalgia of hauling home a family Christmas tree. Fill vintage-style red trucks with evergreen arrangements or wooden wagons with wrapped gifts and seasonal foliage. These playful displays add personality and create memorable conversation pieces for visitors.

Place them where they’re clearly visible but won’t block foot traffic. Enhance the scene with miniature trees or tiny gift packages to tell a festive story. For extra charm, weather vintage-style pieces with paint techniques or hunt for authentic antique toys at flea markets.

26. Cranberry and Orange Garland

Create a charming, edible garland using fresh cranberries and dried orange slices for a natural, fragrant addition to your porch. Thread cranberries and orange slices onto strong thread or thin wire to make swags that can drape over railings or doorways. The deep red and bright orange create a festive, eye-catching contrast.

To keep the garland fresh, replace it every week or two. Dry orange slices beforehand and use firm cranberries to prevent bursting. This biodegradable decoration is perfect for eco-conscious families and adds a delightful scent that both humans and wildlife can enjoy.

27. Stockings Hung on Porch Railings

Extend the joy of hanging stockings beyond the fireplace by displaying them along porch railings or from decorative hooks near your entrance. Choose weather-resistant materials or protect fabric stockings with clear guards, and coordinate colors and patterns with your overall porch décor for a polished, festive look.

Fill them with battery-powered lights for a soft evening glow, evergreen sprigs for fragrance, or small treats for visitors to enjoy. The anticipation of stockings hung in waiting adds excitement and warmth, while secure hooks or clips ensure your display stays safe and charming throughout the season.

28. Winter White and Neutral Palette

Create a refined, elegant Christmas porch using a palette of winter whites, creams, silvers, and natural wood tones. This timeless combination complements any home style without clashing with existing colors. White lights, cream ribbons, silver ornaments, and wooden accents bring a cohesive, understated charm.

Mix textures to keep the display visually engaging—smooth white ornaments, burlap, sleek silver containers, and wooden signs add depth without relying on bold colors. This sophisticated approach feels modern and fresh while still honoring classic holiday traditions, giving your porch a graceful, seasonal allure.

29. Interactive Elements for Children

Include decorative elements that invite interaction and create lasting memories for young visitors. A small chalkboard with festive messages, a mailbox for letters to Santa, or a basket of candy canes lets children engage directly with your display, making your porch feel playful and welcoming.

Consider adding a small bench with Christmas books or positioning decorations at child height so little ones can enjoy them fully. Even simple touches—a bell to ring or a “North Pole” sign—can spark wonder. These interactive details transform your porch from a static display into a joyful, community-friendly space that spreads holiday cheer to everyone.

Conclusion

A beautifully decorated porch instantly spreads holiday cheer and sets the tone for your home’s festive spirit. From classic wreaths and garlands to twinkling lights and cozy lanterns, even small touches can make a big impact.

With a mix of creativity, personal style, and thoughtful details, your porch can become a warm, welcoming space that delights guests and creates lasting holiday memories. This season, let your entryway shine as the heart of your Christmas celebrations.

Resistance Bands, Pull Up Bands, Workout Bands for Exercise, Thick Heavy Resistance Band Set with Door Anchor, Elastic Bands for Body Stretching, Crossfit Training at Home/Gym Men & Women Women

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Price: $29.99
(as of Oct 21, 2025 11:29:16 UTC – Details)


Natural Latex
Made in the USA or Imported
Solid & Hard-wearing: Our heavy resistance bands are made of natural latex material, Non-toxic, no odor, anti-slip and curled, our pull up bands will not break, safe and multifunctional, please rest assured to use
Wide Applications: This professional exercise bands comes with 5 different levels of resistance. Yellow(8-15 lbs), Orange(15-35 lbs), Green(25-65 lbs), Blue(35-85 lbs), Red(50-125 lbs). They are very suitable for beginners, fitness enthusiasts, athletes and other people
Multifunctional Workout Bands: They are perfect for you to learn pull-ups, ring droops and muscle ups. They are ideal for body resistance training and physical therapy to help strengthen ligaments or muscle tears, and are ideal for exercising arms, back, legs and buttocks
Anywhere to Use: This long resistance bands are light weight and takes up little space, you can exercise at any time and at home, go to the gym, office or even on the road
Quality Assurance: Our aim is to provide customers with better resistance bands set, you can get what kind of products you spend, if you have any questions about the products, please feel free to contact us

Customers say

Customers find these resistance bands to be well-made and versatile, offering a wide range of resistance levels and being suitable for both home and travel workouts. They work well for various exercises and workouts, and customers consider them good value for money. The durability receives mixed feedback – while some say they last a decent while, others report them tearing immediately.

Air Fryer Pork Chops (Boneless Or Bone-In)

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Overhead view of a platter filled with freshly roasted porkchops showing crisp outside and perfectly seasoned.Make crispy, juicy air fryer pork chops in 15 minutes. These savory, juicy chops are seasoned with everyday dried herbs and spices (no brown sugar), and we’ve included cooking directions for boneless and bone-in pork chops.

Resistance Bands with Handles for Women, 5 Level Exercise Bands Workout Bands for Physical Therapy, Yoga, Pilates, Door Anchor, Storage Pouch

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Price: $26.97 - $19.98
(as of Oct 20, 2025 23:25:19 UTC – Details)


💖Resistance Bands for Women: Our exercise bands are based on market conditions to upgrade women’s resistance bands, to upgrade the stretching strength of the resistance band set (each resistance band represents a different resistance level, 10 lbs, 15 lbs, 20 lbs, 25 lbs, 30 lbs.) This helps you to easily adjust the resistance levels required for various muscle exercises according to the intensity of different sports. One kit can meet all your exercise needs.
🌟High quality and thoughtful exercise bands resistance for women: these workout bands are made of eco-friendly natural latex, skin-friendly and harmless, with excellent durability and perfect elasticity. The metal buckles on the handles are extra strong to ensure safety during use. Soft, non-slip foam grips provide comfort. Soft and skin-friendly ensures comfort during exercise. Door anchors are thickened and soft so they won’t damage your door.
👍Portable & Customised Training Manual: The resistance bands set is portable and comes with a carrying bag that fits easily in your backpack to help you work out and get in shape anywhere, anytime. Our exercise bands set also comes with a poster for training different parts of your muscles and a detailed instruction manual that informs you how to use the bands and accessories. Workout bands can help you work your legs, hips, shoulders, arms, back, strengthen your biceps, abs and more.
🏋️‍♀️Your Personal Gym: You can combine it with yoga, strength training, aerobics and physiotherapy and more to work your arms, chest, back, butt and legs to strengthen your triceps, abs and Thighs, to help shape your abdominal muscle line, and slim your arms to shape a curve. Work out with your friends and family. It also helps you improve coordination, stamina, and flexibility. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, you can easily get started.
💞Upgraded Resistance Bands & After-sales Service: You will get resistance band*5, 2 handle, 2 ankle strap, 1 door anchor, 1 training poster, 1 instruction manual. To increase your workout intensity level, simply combine resistance bands with training posters to suit your workout needs. With resistance band exercises, you can get the perfect shape. If you encounter any problem while using the product, please contact us and we will help you to solve it within 12 hours.

Customers say

Customers find these resistance bands well-made and effective for weight-bearing exercises, with easy installation on doors and convenient handling. The bands come with a helpful poster of exercises, and customers appreciate the included storage bag. They consider the product worth its price and suitable for at-home workouts, with one customer noting they’re particularly good for physical therapy exercises.

Cannabis works for back pain, in new studies : Shots

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Many people try cannabis for back pain. Now new studies from Europe show it may be an effective option.

Tinnakorn Jorruang/iStockphoto/Getty Images


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Tinnakorn Jorruang/iStockphoto/Getty Images

Should I try cannabis for my back pain?

It’s a question spine surgeon Richard Price says he gets at least several times a day from patients who come into his clinic.

When Price finally dived into the evidence several years ago, he found there were not many high quality studies, even though chronic pain is one of the most common reasons people turn to medical marijuana.

“Anecdotally, [people] say cannabis works great,” says Price, an assistant professor of neurological surgery at UC Davis. “It’s the only thing that helps them sleep at night, the only thing that takes the edge off.”

This is why findings from a pair of major clinical trials in Europe that evaluated cannabis for low back pain — the leading cause of disability worldwide — have caught the attention of Price and others who are investigating the plant’s potential in pain management.

The first, published in the journal Nature Medicine, showed that a blend of cannabis oil, containing the psychoactive compound THC, as well as CBD and other natural compounds in the plant, outperformed a placebo.

The other compared that same proprietary cannabis tincture with opioids. Here, patients were much less likely to have gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, and cannabis offered better relief over 6 months than their painkillers.

Price believes the new studies are “groundbreaking” and will be a “cornerstone” of the growing evidence base on cannabis and chronic pain.

Because cannabis remains a Schedule 1 drug — a category reserved for substances with no accepted medical use — and is heavily regulated, this type of large-scale clinical trial is tough to pull off in the U.S.

Vertanical, the German company that funded the trials, expects to win approval to market their full-spectrum cannabis oil, called VER-01, to patients in several European countries in a matter of months.

Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration is requiring the company replicate this research in the U.S., meaning it could be years before the drug has a chance to win approval here.

“If politicians or the FDA want to speed up the process, we are ready,” says Dr. Clemens Fischer, the founder of Vertanical.

The FDA wouldn’t comment on the future of VER-01, but a spokesperson told NPR in a statement that it supports “rigorous, science-based research to evaluate these products.”

A pain relief alternative

The findings from the European trials are “remarkable,” particularly the fact that cannabis outperformed opioids in terms of pain relief and sleep, says Kevin Boehnke, an assistant professor of anesthesiology at the University of Michigan who studies cannabis and chronic pain.

The opioid trial had close to 400 participants — about half the size of the other study comparing cannabis and a placebo — and patients knew which drug they were receiving.

While these are limitations, Boehnke says the study was also more “reflective” of the real world and validates previous research indicating “many people deliberately use cannabis in place of opioids” because they find it more effective and doesn’t come with the same side effects.

Though Vertanical’s cannabis tincture may not be available in the U.S. anytime soon, Boehnke says for people seeking treatment for low-back pain, the study suggests it may be worth trying a similar cannabis product instead of opioids.

“It might not be exactly the same,” he says. “But I think this provides a lot of useful evidence for patients.”

Others in the field are more circumspect, though.

This is the kind of rigorous study that’s sorely needed, says Simon Haroutounian, who has decades of experience in this area and directs research at the Washington University Pain Center in St. Louis.

But he thinks the findings are specific to this particular compound that was tested.

In the trial, those in the cannabis group had, on average, about a 30% drop in pain after 12 weeks compared to their baseline. Meanwhile, those who took the placebo had around a 20% reduction.

Haroutounian says it’s likely the actual treatment effect is the difference between the two.

Another way to look at the efficacy is that the number of people who need to take the drug for one person to get clinically meaningful pain relief is around seven.

“Most of the medications that we have at our disposal for treating chronic pain are in that range,” Haroutounian says. “So it’s not panacea, it’s not a compound that is going to treat all chronic pain.”

Proponents of medical cannabis are quick to point out the drug’s safety profile is a clear upside. Unlike opioids, it doesn’t come with the same concerns around overdose and addiction.

Fischer of Vertanical notes there were no signs of dependency or withdrawal. In fact, he says the participants usually didn’t feel high, particularly if they’d taken it for a longer stretch of time.

“You’re not stoned,” he says. “They go to work, they drive cars, they use machinery, all possible and legal in Europe.”

In the study, however, those on opioids and cannabis did experience about the same rate of side effects, and about 13% ultimately dropped out.

Over the years, Haroutounian, a clinical pharmacist, has seen successes and failures with his own patients.

One patient had suffered a horrific motorcycle injury and eventually tapered off opioids with the help of cannabis. On the other hand, he recalls the case of an older woman who tried cannabis for knee pain.

“With the first dose, she felt dizzy. She fell and broke her hip,” he says, “The next six months she spent in and out of hospital.”

Pain patients want cannabis options

Currently there’s only one cannabis-derived medication with FDA approval, the seizure treatment Epidiolex, and it doesn’t contain any THC.

While it’s not entirely clear, experts like Boehnke say THC seems to be one of the “primary” compounds responsible for cutting down pain and improving sleep.

“There is no silver bullet chronic pain medication, pretty much for anything,” he says, “It’s often like, ‘oh, I got a little benefit here and a little there,’ you’re kind of piecing together the puzzle.”

Although most Americans live in a state where marijuana is legal, either recreationally or medically, there are well-documented concerns about the quality and consistency of these products.

Ellen Lenox Smith, who’s with the U.S. Pain Foundation, says FDA approval of a cannabis product would not only make it available in all states – but also give patients with chronic pain confidence in what they were using.

“I wish it was our country that was putting this out right now,” she says.

As a patient advocate, she’s frustrated that there isn’t better research she can direct others to.

“It’s unfortunate because a lot of people are kind of just on their own,” says Lenox Smith, who has used medical marijuana for nearly two decades to treat her own pain.

Her condition, known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, has led to more than two dozen surgeries, including on her neck and spine. Still, a spoonful of her homemade cannabis oil gives her relief and helps her sleep through the night.

UC Davis surgeon Richard Price thinks it’s a reasonable option for his patients who are not getting an operation, though he’d like to see the findings from Europe replicated in the U.S., before he promotes cannabis more broadly.

“It’s really challenging to tell somebody, ‘I know you’re in pain, but there’s nothing I can do for you, and a lot of patients do not want to go on opioids,'” he says.

How to Plant and Grow Juniper

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Transplanting

Transplanting should be done in the spring after the ground is workable or in the fall.

Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the container your juniper is growing in.

Remove your plant from its container by squeezing the sides to loosen the soil, then gently pull it out and loosen the roots.

Place it in the ground and fill in around it with the soil you removed from the hole.

Give the plant a good soaking to settle the soil.

Pests and Disease

Junipers are sturdy, and they don’t often fall victim to diseases or pests. They’re also resistant to many of the herbivores that plague other plants.

That said, you might bump up against some issues now and then. Here’s what to watch for:

Herbivores

I know, you’re probably thinking that you’ve heard junipers aren’t appealing to herbivores such as rabbits and deer.

There are plenty of articles on the internet touting these hardy plants as deer and rabbit proof, and it’s true that they’re not often their first choice.

A horizontal image of a red deer grazing on a hillside in autumn.

I hate to be the one to bring you bad news, but animals will take a bite out of juniper shrubs, especially if other food is scarce.

Damage can range from no big deal to devastating, depending on the species, cultivar, and the age of the plant.

A tiny sapling is extremely vulnerable, while an established shrub usually won’t be bothered much at all.

When I was living in Utah, deer (and rabbits) would regularly devour my juniper saplings, and one harsh winter, the deer ate all the foliage on my older Rocky Mountain junipers (J. scopulorum) from about six feet down.

Pests

There are a few common pests that attack junipers.

Pests are more likely to have an impact on stressed trees, so do your best to keep your plant healthy with good watering and feeding practices.

Aphids

Aphids are impossible to avoid, and at some point, every gardener will come in contact with them.

Junipers may be attacked by several types of aphids from different genera, but there is one group of species known as the giant conifer aphids (Cinara spp.) that are often found feeding on these shrubs in particular.

Aphids won’t kill an established juniper, but they can make the foliage turn yellow or brown. A secondary issue is that they leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts sooty mold.

Fortunately, they aren’t hard to get rid of. Spray your plant with a blast of water to knock the little pests loose. They rarely find their way back to a plant.

A close up square image of two bottles of Monterey Horticultural Oil isolated on a white background.A close up square image of two bottles of Monterey Horticultural Oil isolated on a white background.

Monterey Horticultural Spray

You can also apply horticultural oil spray, like this one from Monterey, which you can pick up at Arbico Organics.

Need more info? Our guide to dealing with aphids has lots more tips.

Bagworms

Want to know how bagworms (Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis) got their name? The caterpillars create large bags during the fall that look a lot like conifer cones.

These bags are filled with hundreds of eggs.

A close up horizontal image of a bagworm moth cocoon hanging from a conifer tree.A close up horizontal image of a bagworm moth cocoon hanging from a conifer tree.

When the larvae hatch in the spring, they crawl out and feed on the foliage.

While an established plant can probably survive an infestation, a stressed or young shrub can be completely defoliated and killed, especially if it’s attacked year after year.

If you spot the bags, remove and dispose of them.

A spray containing the beneficial bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis is also effective if applied in the spring when the larvae are emerging.

A close up square image of two plastic bottles of Monterey Bt isolated on a white background.A close up square image of two plastic bottles of Monterey Bt isolated on a white background.

Monterey Bt Spray

Monterey makes a liquid spray available at Arbico Organics.

Juniper Scale

Juniper scale insects (Carulaspis juniperi) are two millimeters long, with hard shells. In small numbers, they aren’t too much of a problem, but large infestations can kill plants over time.

The first sign is yellowish-brown foliage and an overall appearance of being dry and wilted. Later, branches die off, followed by the entire plant dying.

These insects suck the juice out of needles, leaving behind sticky honeydew.

Prune away infested branches. Make sure your plant is getting enough water and fertilizer, if necessary, since a healthy plant is better able to withstand this pest.

You can also use horticultural oils to suffocate the insects. Alternately, insecticidal soap will kill them off.

A close up vertical image of a spray bottle of Bonide Insecticidal Super Soap isolated on a white background.A close up vertical image of a spray bottle of Bonide Insecticidal Super Soap isolated on a white background.

Bonide Super Soap

Try Bonide’s Super Soap, available at Arbico Organics.

You’ll likely need to reapply multiple times throughout the growing season. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for application timing.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are a common garden pest, and spruce spider mites (Oligonychus ununguis) in particular enjoy a nibble on plants in the Cupressaceae family.

These tiny arachnids are too small to see, unless you get in really close. But if you notice fine webbing on your plant and tiny yellow spots on the needles, you likely have an infestation.

Unlike other mites, spruce mites prefer cool weather, so watch for them in the spring and fall.

As with aphids, a strong spray of water can knock the pests loose.

If that doesn’t work, a broad-spectrum insecticide like Bonide Mite-X can kill them off.

A close up vertical image of a spray bottle of Bonide Mite X isolated on a white background.A close up vertical image of a spray bottle of Bonide Mite X isolated on a white background.

Bonide Mite-X

Arbico Organics carries this potent spray. Just be judicious in using it, as it can kill off beneficial bugs as well.

Disease

I know we spent a lot of time talking about how junipers are survivors, but that doesn’t mean they can’t fall ill now and then.

Keep an eye out for the following:

Cedar Apple Rust

Gymnosporangium clavariiforme and G. cornutum cause cedar apple rust in juniper shrubs, particularly J. virginiana.

In the summer, watch for large two-inch galls forming near the tips of the branches.

A close up horizontal image of cedar apple rust fungi growing on a conifer pictured on a soft focus background.A close up horizontal image of cedar apple rust fungi growing on a conifer pictured on a soft focus background.

In the following spring, these galls produce long, jelly-like growths known as teliohorns that are filled with spores just waiting to blow away to infect other trees.

Junipers that are infected have stunted growth, may become weak, and can eventually die.

Apples, crabapples, hawthorns, and quince trees serve as alternate hosts for this disease, and when the spores leave the juniper, they go in search of these other trees to complete their life cycle.

Prune away any galls that you spot. They look like small walnuts or wrinkly bulbs at the ends of branches.

Needle Cast Fungus

Needle cast is a disease that causes the previous year’s needle growth to turn reddish brown and fall off the shrub. This typically happens in late winter.

The infected needles on the ground release spores that will go on to reinfect the tree the next year.

Air Fryer Zucchini

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Overhead view of a ceramic bowl filled with crisp Air Fryer Zucchini pieces with a spoon in the bowl.Make perfectly crispy air fryer zucchini with just 5 minutes of prep time. Tossed with Parmesan and everyday spices, this is a fast, healthy, and flavor-packed veggie side dish.

THERABAND High Resistance Bands, Set of 2 Elastic Super Bands for Improving Flexibility, Injury Rehab, & Full Body Workouts, Heavy Duty Stretch Bands for Lifting, 1 Light & 1 Medium Band

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Price: $26.28
(as of Oct 20, 2025 11:24:47 UTC – Details)


THERABAND High Resistance Bands represent our latest innovation in resistance band technology. The new bands each feature the exact resistance force on them making it quick and easy to identify which band is right for you. The THERABAND brand is backed by 40 years of professional use and is the most trusted resistance band by clinicians. THERABAND: Defy Your Best.
Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 41 x 0.25 x 0.04 inches; 8.82 ounces
Item model number ‏ : ‎ 14951
Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
Date First Available ‏ : ‎ April 22, 2020
Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ THERABAND
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B087GFP7YW
Best Sellers Rank: #9,200 in Sports & Outdoors (See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors) #133 in Resistance Bands
Customer Reviews: 4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 517 ratings var dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction; P.when(‘A’, ‘ready’).execute(function(A) { if (dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction !== true) { dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction = true; A.declarative( ‘acrLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault”: true }, function (event) { if (window.ue) { ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } } ); } }); P.when(‘A’, ‘cf’).execute(function(A) { A.declarative(‘acrStarsLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault” : true }, function(event){ if(window.ue) { ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } }); });
THERABAND�s all new, High Resistance Bands are the ideal solution for flexibility, injury rehab, and fully body workouts
Comes with two bands light (15 lbs. resistance) and medium (25 lbs.), each measures 41� long by .25� thick
These super bands are heavy duty resistance bands that make a great alternative to expensive gym equipment while still meeting all of your exercise needs
Elastic resistance band features the exact pounds of resistance printed onto the band with a visual indicator to track progress and improve results
Made from durable, natural rubber latex that can be stretched every day for years without losing its elasticity or breaking

Customers say

Customers find these resistance bands to be of high quality, durable, and effective for strength training, particularly for the next step of harder resistance exercises. They offer proper resistance and good stretchability, and customers appreciate their versatility, allowing them to add to their workouts. The size receives mixed feedback, with some customers finding them too tight.

Dawn Gets Ready for Fall in Arizona

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Hi GPODers!

For many veggie gardeners in the North, the season is slowing down. Maybe you’re transitioning to growing some crops in cold frames, but for the most part, edible gardens will be getting cleaned up and a short period of downtime commences until seed-starting season arrives. But for Dawn Fountain in Surprise, Arizona, the growing season never has to stop. Dawn has shared her small but bountiful garden several times (check out her previous submissions here: Dawn’s Backyard Garden in Arizona, Indoor Growing in Arizona, Dawn’s Spring Garden, and Dawn’s Garden Battles Extreme Temperatures), but each new submission is another insightful look at the unique challenges and benefits of growing food in the desert. Today’s post is a deep dive on all of the wonderful edibles and flowers that are still producing, as well as the recent additions to her delicious mix.

It’s time to get the garden ready for fall in Surprise, Arizona—change up the dirt, add compost and new plants (most from seeds, some store/nursery-bought ones).

My main garden has: cucumbers, parsley, broccoli, passion flower (Passiflora spp. and cvs., Zones 6–11), asparagus, lettuce, tomatoes, basil, and peas/beans . . .

raised bed and container vegetable garden. . . as well as melon, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and corn.

watermelon growing on trellised vineFor the melons, I have about 6 babies and 10 teeny-tiny ones.

small butterfly gardenMy butterfly garden and memorial garden for my grandfather, mom, and grandmother are just starting.

small container memorial gardenThe start of Dawn’s memorial garden—a potted plant for each loved one lost.

raised container gardenThe raised bed has habanero, ghost pepper, jalapeño, oregano (Origanum vulgare, Zones 4–8), marigold. The peppers are great for making infused honey.

raised vegetable gardenThe side garden in which I let my husband just plant what he wanted, where he wanted. He has planted several flowers, cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. The side garden also has grapes and three types of mint: chocolate (Mentha × piperita f. citrata ‘Chocolate’, Zones 6–9), peppermint (Mentha × piperita, Zones 5–9), strawberry mint (Mentha spicata ‘Strawberry’, Zones 4–9). And I added apple mint (Mentha suaveolens, Zones 5–9) to it today.

bee on sunflowerThe sunflower is where the birds have planted it. It is a mammoth, as there are about 15 buds/flowers on it. The bees love it.

indoor garden in front of large windowWhen I start my seeds inside, I like to keep track of when I plant the seeds and when they sprout. I look up how long and mark the date they are supposed to germinate. It is entertaining for me to see how few days it takes for me to get them to sprout. It is so exciting, after hardening the seedlings, to put them in my garden.

Can you tell I love my garden? It is my goal to have a mini jungle that I can use to feed my family. I like using organic herbs, veggies, and fruits. It is so fulfilling to me.

I wish, wish, wish, wish that I could grow peonies, but Arizona is just too hot.

In October, my favorite local nursery starts its classes on how to grow and prepare to grow different things. You know where I will be Saturdays in October.

Thank you so much for another fantastic update, Dawn! Not only is it interesting to see what and how you grow in Arizona, it’s impressive to see the abundance you’re able to cultivate under challenging conditions.

Are you a kitchen gardener like Dawn? Are you collecting your last harvest, getting ready to finally pick your largest pumpkin, or have you already sown seeds that will give you fresh veggies through winter? Consider sharing your vegetable garden photos with the blog. Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.

 

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

Do you receive the GPOD by email yet? Sign up here

Draper’s Strength Heavy Duty Resistance Stretch Loop Bands for Powerlifting Workout Exercise and Assisted Pull Ups

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Price: $8.99 - $7.59
(as of Oct 19, 2025 23:23:20 UTC – Details)


Draper’s Strength LIFETIME DURABILITY – built to last and maintain their elasticity over many years of training. The secret to extreme durability and muscle building tension is the continuous latex dipping process that creates 100’s of micro layers in Draper’s Strength bands. MULTI FUNCTIONAL – used for ankle, knees, legs, thighs and wrists. Aids in weight loss. Perfect for strength-conditioning, coordination and balance; for assistive pull-ups, chin-ups in pull up bar, pull up tower, dip station with your pull up mate, Pilates, CrossFit, P90X, Slimin6, Insanity, TurboJam, Isometrics exercises, monster walks, lateral walks, goblet squats, etc. TOP RECOMMENDED CHOICE BY ELITE ATHLETES AND DOCTORS – For physical therapy to help in recovery from torn MCL, torn ACL, knee replacement, patella and meniscus rehab. PERFECT LENGTH — All bands are 41″ long so you can extend them from the ground to far overhead without damaging the bands. SAFE AND EASY TO USE – safe way to train at any age and for any fitness level – beginners or experts. LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT- perfect for traveling and for exercising anytime, anywhere. COST EFFECTIVE- No need for expensive exercise equipment. No need for any more exercise bands. Just switch to higher resistance or combine a few exercise bands together. FREE WORKOUT e-GUIDE with every band purchase. The varying levels of resistance allow you to do all types of exercises which can be found in our workout guide. The workout guide is emailed a day after shipment. Get your own Draper’s Strength resistance bands now and start your journey to a fit and healthy life and Simply click the Add To Cart button.
From light to heavy resistance (2-200 lbs) – To choose the best bands for your needs, check out the band tension chart in the images to the left.
A variety of exercises can be performed – for physical therapy, rehabilitation, pull-ups, stretching, strength training, powerlifting and etc.
Bands are 41″ inches long and are made of high-quality latex material built to last for years.
These high-quality bands are very durable so you can use them for years to come.
Premium Choice: Now enjoy the exercise with DRAPER’S STRENGTH exercise loop bands! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, and we’ll provide you with a great solution

Customers say

Customers find these resistance bands well-made and effective for various exercises, particularly for pull-ups and physical therapy. They consider them good value, noting they’re a great alternative to more expensive options. The durability receives mixed feedback – while some say they last a long time, others report them breaking with normal use. The stretchability is also mixed, with some praising the stretch while others find it difficult to use. Customers express concerns about injury prevention, with several reporting being hit in the face during use.