10 Winter Garden Delights for Year-Round Beauty

1. Berry Beautiful

Persistent winter berries feed wildlife and delight humans. Dogwood, highbush cranberry, and viburnums provide long-lasting fruit that birds rely on when forage is scarce.

2. Contained Wonderland

Fill containers two-thirds with sand, then add evergreen sprigs, colorful twigs, and dried perennials (ornamental grasses, coneflowers). No watering needed!

3. Pretty Pedestal

Transform an unused birdbath with evergreen boughs and a large red ornament for a winter focal point.

4. Window into the World

Dress up empty window boxes with evergreen branches and colorful twigs. Source evergreens from local florists if not in your garden.

5. Feed the Birds

Stock feeders with black oil sunflower seeds — the best winter sustenance for most feeder birds. Avoid high-millet/oat mixes.

6. Stand Tall

Leave perennial stems standing through winter. They provide food, shelter for wildlife, and vertical interest.

7. Evergreen Joy

Evergreen trees and shrubs (ivy, white pine) are winter's belles, adding invaluable texture. Plant several throughout your landscape.

8. Add Light

Twinkle lights on twig structures, trees, shrubs, or containers combat short winter days with magical evening glow.

9. Colorful Twigs

Redtwig dogwood (Cornus sericea) sparkles with red bark (yellow cultivars also available). Prune one-third of canes annually, removing old canes — young ones have the brightest color.

10. Watch for Signs of Spring

Stroll the landscape regularly for early signs: crocus and grape hyacinths pushing through snow, heralding the coming season.