January 31st can be bleak. The world is asleep and plants are still dormant for the season. After a gentle snowfall I ventured outside to capture some of the beauty that winter offers. It got me thinking about the importance of planning and planting for the winter months.
I took a stroll around my yard to help capture and remember what trees, shrubs, and plants add winter interest to my landscape.
When planning/planting a landscape it is important to remember the evergreen plants. These don’t just have to include plants with needles. (find more ideas here).
Next up berries/persistent fruit. These can add a variety of color, texture, and food for the animals that are still around this time of year.
Adding plants with interesting bark texture and color is another great way to add interest to your winter landscape.
Plants that hold onto leaves, seed heads and plumes also add amazing texture to the winter landscape. They can also add beautiful structure.
Lastly, water. If you are lucky enough to have a year round natural water source in your yard it can be a source of beauty AND a source of functionality for the little critters that visit your landscape. Wether the drink, swim, or bathe in the water it offers the opportunity to watch and look for new visitors daily. If you don’t have a natural year round source of water, you may want to consider a water feature.
Other things to consider are plant structure, weeping, upright, espaliered, or horizontal. Hardscape can also add interest, beauty & structure. Rocks, walls, cement, fences, pathways etc…
I know we sure enjoy getting out in our winter Landscape. What about you? Do you have a favorite feature in your landscape during the winter months?
Check our more ideas here.
XO,
Carly
The Garden Spot 