Winter interest in the garden

Did you know that Colorado has 8 seasons, not just 4? Here we have summer, fall, winter, spring, winter, spring, winter, spring….. yes, we all know what April feels like.  Time to go to Mexico!

When you look in your garden this time of year, are you happy with what you see? Or could it use something interesting to look at, some structure, some form aside from the squishy remains of last years plants? To add winter interest to gardens, we incorporate architectural elements and elements that will remain standing all winter.

Here are just a few ideas that could help you love your Mountain garden even in early April.

1. Add hints of structure to flower beds. This can be as simple and natural as a tree stump, as lovely as a concrete statue poking up through the snow. If you can arrange for a cat to use it for your photo shoot, better yet!

Adding natural structural elements to bulb areas is a lovely idea too, and adds charm when a late snow blankets the area.

2. For areas that receive more snow, larger architectural elements such as arbors and benches will add winter interest and make your garden look inviting.

You may not want to sit here just now... but look how pretty!

3. Add evergreen shrubs.  This will add important color and form to your garden.  At least 15 % of every shrub bed should consist of evergreens. Here are a few that are especially wonderful:

Picea pungens globosa – the blue spruce shrub, adds an elegant look to the summer and winter garden, and looks so natural here in Colorado.

 

Boxwood – buxus – there are at least 4 varieties that are hardy in our area, and they add wonderful, compact structure for a more formal look

Arborvitae – thuja – aurea nana – this is a lovely addition to a shrub or perennial bed.   While deer do like these delicious little shrubs, the lime green winter color and soft texture make it a worthwhile addition worth protecting.

Yuccas - For sunny locations with good drainage and typically less than 18” snow coverage, yuccas can be spectacular in the winter.

There are many other ways of adding winter interest, such as deciduous shrubs that shine in the winter and add tremendous beauty to your winter garden. We’ll detail those in the next article!