Creating a Buckeye Garland
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In autumn, the glossy brown seed of buckeye trees (Aesculus) begins to fall. Buckeyes, also called horse chestnuts, bloom in spring in shades of yellow, red, white or dark pink. The seed forms inside fleshy outer husks that are smooth or prickly, depending on the species. A mature tree drops hundreds of seeds every fall.
Buckeyes are considered good luck charms, but there are other ways to use them. Buckeye necklaces, for example, are a big hit with Ohio State students and alumni. In the classic university-pride necklace, buckeyes are separated by red and gray beads. But you don’t need to be an Ohio State fan to partake in the buckeye fun – celebrate the harvest season with your family by making decorative buckeye garlands for your home! (Important note: This is not a project for tiny children. Buckeyes are poisonous if ingested. Parents, warn your kids not to put the seed in their mouths, and watch them carefully.)  Add Photo to Journal |  | | Photo Credit: Lane Greer | | The smooth fruit of Indian horse chestnut begins to open to expose its glossy, brown seed. |
Once the seed begins to fall off the trees naturally (beginning around mid-September), you’re ready to begin. (If you pull it off the tree before then, the seed will be immature and shrivel unattractively. It’s best to be patient and let nature do its thing.)
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| Warnings |
- All buckeyes are poisonous if ingested. Parents, watch your children closely!
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| Facts |
- The fleshy outer covering of the buckeye is the fruit, the buckeye is the seed, and the whitish “buckeye” is the point at which the fruit attaches to the seed.
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| Faqs |
- Q: About how much money will this project cost?
A: Assuming you already have the drill at home, as follows (prices may vary):
● Wire for stringing (15 feet): $6.29
● Beads (60): $2.99
● Buckeyes: Free on roadside
Grand total: $9.28
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Drying Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are beautiful summer flowers that dry well and then can be kept for years. This is a quick and easy project for fall.
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