by Gwen Lewis
Winter signals the end of blooming flowers and gorgeous greenery in many areas of the country. However, winter doesn’t have to leave your home and yard riddled with ugly withered plants. When fall comes to a close, and the cooler temps usher in the beginning of winter, prep your garden in advance and find ways embrace the season.
Many garden experts advise a few winterizing tips to keep the garden healthy. Keep ponds heated so they don’t freeze over, and remember basic maintenance tips like using salt to keep walkways from becoming too slippery. It’s also time to make sure that snow blower works and to ensure you’re stocked with the must-haves for winter weather.
And while many of your annuals may have shriveled up for the season, there are ways to spice up the look of the front (and back) of your home to sparkle with the season. Potted evergreen trees look festive for the winter season and can even be decorated for the holidays. Use garland or ribbons to add pops of color. If you’re feeling extra festive, maybe add ornaments to your evergreen trees. Holly trees or shrubs also may be planted in spring or fall to showcase the beautiful red berries during the winter…but be careful, they are poisonous to both humans and our furry friends.
Winter also is the perfect time to embrace other ways to decorate beyond greenery. While spring allows gardeners to use plants and flowers to beautify our homes, winter may require more creativity. Adding flameless candles to windows or wreaths to doors embraces the warm festive ambiance of the season. Cinnamon brooms also infuse the home with the comforting scent of spicy fragrance.
For many avid gardeners, winter is the season to begin planning their spring and summer gardens. While winter may seem endless, those cooler temps welcome the warmth of spring…and that’s prime gardening season. Do your homework and find the varieties of flowers, trees, and plants that you would like to add to next season’s garden.
If you’re interested in expanding your garden to include produce or fruit-bearing trees, be sure to research what varieties would work best in the climate. You’ll also need to map out where the ideal planting spots are for each new green life. Some plants thrive in direct sunlight, while others need less light.
When preparing for your next spring/summer garden, you also should note what other tools you may need for the planting season. Do you need fertilizer, a new shovel or other items? Start making a list of garden necessities now. That way, when it’s time to head to the nursery or home store, you’re not overwhelmed or underprepared.
While winter may mean the end of your flowers and bright greenery, the season doesn’t have to be all snow, ice and dreary cold. Use winter greenery to infuse the beauty of the season into your garden. And pull inspiration from the festivity of the winter holidays to create an outdoor garden presentation that is fit for yuletide joy. Wreaths, holly berries, and, of course, small potted evergreen trees can turn your home into a festive wonderland that’s seasonal and beautiful. And while you’re decking your outdoors with colors and plants of the season, use the winter months to prepare and plan your next spring garden bounty.
