Winter is a wonderful time for landscaping, even though it may seem more challenging than other seasons. Here are a few ways to make your landscape stand out through the cold season!

Don’t let gray skies and leafless trees get you down. There are a variety of ways to enhance your yard’s appearance during the cold months. Red Osier Dogwoods, winterberry, and snowdrops all stand out through the snow.

Snowdrops have delicate, white flowers that carry a unique charm and elegance that can brighten up any garden during the chilly Winter months. Snowdrops are seen as a symbol of hope and renewal reminding us that spring is on its way. In addition to their beauty, snowdrops are also incredibly versatile plants. They can be planted in a variety of locations, from flower beds to woodland areas, and can thrive in both sun and shade. They are also very easy to care for and come back year and year, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Red Osier Dogwoods have beautiful red limbs which contrast very well against a snowy landscape. During dark winter days, its red twigs glow! Direct sun exposure is the key to bringing out their bright winter colors. Take good care of your Red Osiers, they require winter pruning and should be watered if a dry spell occurs. (Tip: Red Osier’s look especially striking when planted next to evergreens) Winter is not the only time of year Red Osiers are active, in the spring they produce clusters of small white flowers, followed by blue-white fruit in the summer. Many bird species feast off of these fruit.  The leaves of the Red Osier also turn a rich red in the fall, providing year-round interest to your landscape.

Winterberry, also known as Ilex verticillata, is a stunning shrub that adds a pop of vibrant color to any winter landscape. Its bright red berries are a beautiful contrast against the stark white snow, making it a popular choice for winter gardens. Caring for winterberry is relatively easy, but it does require a bit of attention to ensure it stays healthy and colorful. Winterberry prefers moist, well-draining soil, so be sure to water it regularly. Be sure to prune winterberry in late winter or early spring before any new growth begins. This will help maintain the shrub’s shape and promote healthy growth. In addition to its stunning beauty, winterberry is also a valuable source of food for wildlife during the winter months. The bright red berries are a favorite of birds, including robins, cedar waxwings, and blue jays.

Are there any plants we missed? Let us know! We love hearing from you guys!