As winter nears, many gardeners watch their yards lose light and color. Gardens seem bare. Yet winter shows its own kind of grace when you use new ideas and care. The Morris Arboretum shows how to care for winter plants and keep nature alive even in cold days.
The Beauty of Winter Foliage
At winter’s core, some plants stand out when leaves turn dull. Horticulturist Vince Morocco prefers plants such as the red twig dogwood (Cornus sericea). Its red stems shine when most plants hide their leaves. Young stems shine best, so gardeners cut old ones to keep them bright. Red twig dogwood grows well in wet soil. It fits many yards.
Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) shows red berries that shine in cold times. The red berries brighten the yard and give food to birds on long trips. Gardeners plant winterberry in sunlit spots to get the best fruits.
Captivating Bark and Structure
Winter brings not only color but also texture. The bark of some trees adds strong looks. The lacebark pine has smooth bark with light and dark spots. The dawn redwood, once lost to time, shows wavy bark and a long past. It was found in a small valley in China. It now grows in many gardens.
The paperbark maple (Acer griseum) shows red, peeling bark. This tree comes from Asia and is hard to find back home. Its form and function meet in a pleasing way.
The Role of Evergreens and Ornamental Grasses
Evergreens stand in winter gardens year after year. They keep the yard firm and full of interest. The Japanese umbrella pine (Sciadopitys verticillata) grows slowly. Its needles, spread out like an umbrella, add calm grace to the garden.
Ornamental grasses, such as fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), add a soft touch in winter. These grasses hold their shape and give small moves to the calm yard. Using these grasses can keep the garden bright after many summer blooms fade.
Seasonal Gardening Practices
Some think that work in the garden stops when cold comes. In truth, winter gives a chance to plan for new growth. Gardeners use this time to set up spaces that will show charm in all seasons. With the right plants, gardens stay full of life, as the Morris Arboretum shows.
From the red of winterberry to the strong shape of evergreens, winter gardens can feel full of wonder. The Morris Arboretum shows how wise plant choices can let nature glow all year.
Conclusion: A Winter Wonderland Awaits
This look at winter gardening shows that cold days can hold beauty. With new ideas and the right plants, each gardener can change an outdoor space into a winter wonderland. As you go to your garden this winter, know that beauty stands near, waiting for you to see it.
About Steve’s Property Maintenance
Steve’s Property Maintenance is a trusted lawn care and landscaping service provider dedicated to keeping properties in top condition across New London County, Connecticut. With a reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and top-quality service, we specialize in lawn care, yard maintenance, landscaping, power washing, and more. Our team is committed to delivering lush, healthy lawns and pristine outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial clients.
📍 Serving: Norwich, Preston, Groton, Stonington, Waterford, Mystic, and surrounding areas.
📞 Contact us at +1 (860) 847-3441 for a free quote and let us take care of your lawn care needs!
