DIY Smilax Staircase Installation Guide
A Step-by-Step Guide for Your Piney Rose Pickup Wedding
Congratulations! Your staircase smilax has been carefully prepared by the Piney Rose team and is ready for installation. Each bale has already been pre-cut into manageable sections to make the process as simple as possible. Follow these steps for a lush, natural-looking staircase.
Before You Begin
What's Included
You'll Need
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Scissors or wire cutters (to trim zip ties)
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A step stool or ladder (if needed)
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One helper (highly recommended)
Having two people makes installation much easier—one person can hold the greenery in place while the other secures the zip ties.
Step 1: Fluff the Smilax
Before attaching anything, gently separate and fluff each section.
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Untangle any vines that may have wrapped together during transport.
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Let the greenery relax for a few minutes.
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Don't worry if it looks compressed at first—it will naturally open up once arranged.
Step 2: Start at the Bottom
Always begin at the bottom of the staircase.
This allows every new section to overlap the previous one, creating a seamless, full appearance.
Locate the first railing post closest to the floor.
Step 3: Secure the First Section
Place the first piece of smilax along the inside or outside of the railing (whichever faces your guests).
Using a zip tie:
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Wrap around the thickest part of the vine.
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Secure it tightly to the railing.
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Do not crush the stems—snug is perfect.
Leave the greenery loose between attachment points so it drapes naturally.
Step 4: Continue Up the Staircase
Take your next piece of smilax.
Overlap it with the previous section by 6–12 inches.
The overlap hides where one piece ends and the next begins.
Secure with another zip tie.
Continue working upward one section at a time.
Think of it like laying roof shingles—every new piece sits slightly over the previous one.
Step 5: Attach Every Few Feet
Secure the smilax approximately every 18–24 inches, or wherever it naturally needs support.
Use additional zip ties if:
More attachment points create a cleaner, fuller installation.
Step 6: Shape as You Go
Don't wait until the end.
After each section is attached:
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Pull vines outward for fullness.
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Tuck loose stems into neighboring greenery.
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Rotate vines so leaves face outward.
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Allow some vines to trail naturally for an organic garden look.
Avoid pulling everything perfectly tight—smilax looks best when it has soft movement.
Step 7: Hide the Zip Ties
Once a section is secure:
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Tuck leaves over each zip tie.
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Rotate the greenery if needed to conceal fasteners.
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Trim the excess tail from each zip tie with scissors or wire cutters.
The goal is for guests to see only beautiful greenery—not mechanics.
Step 8: Finish at the Top
When you reach the top of the staircase:
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Tuck the final stems around the last railing post.
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Secure with one final zip tie.
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Fluff and arrange the ending so it appears natural rather than abruptly stopping.
Final Styling
Step back several feet and view the staircase from different angles.
Look for:
✔ Empty spots
✔ Visible zip ties
✔ Areas that need more fullness
✔ Vines that could drape more naturally
Make small adjustments by gently pulling vines into place.
Helpful Tips
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Install the smilax as close to your ceremony or reception as possible for the freshest appearance.
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If installing earlier in the day, lightly mist the greenery with water to help keep it hydrated. Avoid soaking it.
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Work slowly—it's much easier to adjust as you go than after everything is attached.
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Save a few extra vines until the end in case you need to fill any sparse areas.
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Keep zip ties accessible in your pocket while working so you're not constantly reaching for supplies.
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If a vine naturally wants to curve or drape, let it! Those organic shapes create the most elegant finished look.
Piney Rose Pro Tip
The secret to a luxury staircase installation is layering. Rather than stretching each piece tightly from one end to the other, allow the greenery to overlap generously and drape naturally. Building the staircase one section at a time—from the bottom up—creates the lush, full, garden-inspired look seen in professional wedding installations.
Enjoy creating your beautiful staircase, and congratulations on your wedding day!