When we think of a garden, the first images that come to mind are often vibrant flowers in full bloom and lush green foliage. However, a well-designed garden extends beyond the beauty of spring and summer. Embracing the winter season allows for an entirely different expression of the landscape—one where structure, texture, and subtle color take center stage.
In winter, perennials lie dormant, creating a quiet canvas where evergreens and woody plants shine. A blanket of snow accentuates the form and structure of garden beds, allowing branches, bark, and berries to become focal points. This season offers a unique opportunity to highlight elements that might otherwise be overshadowed during more vibrant times of the year.
Certain plants bring life and dimension to the winter landscape. The bright red berries of Ilex verticillata (winterberry holly) stand out against muted backdrops, offering color and attracting birds. The fiery stems of Cornus sericea 'Arctic Fire' (red twig dogwood) create bold strokes of color in an otherwise monochrome setting. The peeling bark of the river birch (Betula nigra) adds rich texture, while the elegant, bare branches of a Japanese snowbell (Viburnum plicatum) resemble delicate brushstrokes in the garden's winter composition.
Incorporating plants with interesting bark, seed heads, and evergreen foliage can transform a garden into a dynamic winter scene. Ornamental grasses, left uncut, sway gracefully with the wind and catch frost beautifully. Evergreens, from stately pines to low-growing junipers, provide structure and color throughout the cold months. Hardscape elements like stone walls, sculptures, and pathways also play an essential role, adding form and guiding the eye through the landscape.
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