Let's face it: after the variety of hues and textures in the other seasons, the winter environment can appear a touch drab. When the weather turns cold, most plants become dormant. It can leave a white, brown, and gray palette. But, we can still create a lovely scene against the austere backdrop of the silent season.

Think about landscaping. You might picture lush vegetation, brightly colored blooms, warm weather, and a sunny sky. With this in mind, winter and landscaping do not go together. Winter is a difficult time for property managers. Due to ice, snow, salt, and filth, we may find it challenging to keep our properties looking nice. But, don't give up! Here are some winter landscaping ideas to keep your property's grounds looking lovely.

1. Winterize your water system

Every year, hundreds of landlords are stung by bursting pipes in some water features when the water within swells due to the freezing weather. Make sure you winterize outside sprinkler systems. You can do so by blowing compressed air to clear any standing water. If you haven't already, set aside the following day to do this as soon as possible. For more information on protecting your units from cold conditions, see how to winterize your hose bibs here. 

2. Use bark and berries

Some trees are grown solely for their attractive bark. They shine brightest in the winter when the rest of the foliage has withered back. Also, the low winter sun tends to bring out their texture and color more than the summer sun. 

Red/brown bark trees, such as Prunus serrula, contrast beautifully with whitebark trees, such as silver birches. Planting shrubs with vivid berries is another option to add color to your winter landscaping ideas. Some of these are also fantastic for bringing birds to your garden. 

Cotoneaster and hollies are two of our faves (a Christmas-season classic). Callicarpa, often known as beautyberry, has clusters of vibrant purple berries that we adore.

3. Use lighting

The days get shorter as the weather gets cooler, and winter days are getting nearer. When winter is in full flow, it is dark before most of us have even arrived home from work. Having outdoor lighting means you won't return home to a gloomy house after an evening out. 

Lighting your architecture, landscaping, paths, and entrances will give you a sense of security. On a cold evening, it can also create a sense of warmth. Also, landscape lighting creates a pleasant and warm atmosphere when you arrive home. This feeling can help us get through the long, dark, and cold winter that follows the holidays.

For a sleek and helpful addition, choose wall lights to brighten the exterior of your home or recessed spotlights in paving, decking, or steps. You might also use uplights to highlight the skeletal winter forms of trees. Here are some lighting ideas perfect for your winter garden.

4. Choose winter plants and flowers

Even though there is cold air in some parts of the country, the gardening season is far from over. There are lots of plants and flowers that blossom in the winter like the witch hazel. Many winter flowers like perennials, annuals, and shrubs bloom during the year's colder months.

Some things to remember: You need to plant perennials and shrubs before the ground freezes to establish its roots. And in temperate regions, you can plant hardy annuals like pansies for much of the winter. With a bit of forethought now, you may enjoy bright patches of color in the form of flowers this winter.

5. Install winter hanging baskets

Little conifers and boxes look great in winter hanging baskets. They are an architectural element that will stay all year. But, just because we're approaching winter doesn't mean we must sacrifice color in our baskets.

Winter hanging baskets are a fantastic way to add color and interest to your garden and living room in the winter. Seeing them as you gaze out the window while the snow falls can improve your emotions. And they will add winter curb appeal to your home. They're also a practical and straightforward solution to continue your winter gardening ideas. Hang them by your front door or front yard for quick curb appeal, or use them to brighten up blank walls and fences in the yard. You can also suspend your baskets from the branches of deciduous trees! 

6. Create drama with ornamental grasses

Ornamental grasses add interest to a garden at any time of year. But they're especially striking in the dead of winter. When your garden's skeletons are all that's visible, decorative grasses add shape, texture, and drama to the landscape architectural designs. Many even serve a dual purpose by attracting birds to your winter garden designed while offering food and shelter.

7. Build a cozy garden retreat

Some people feel that summer means the end of outdoor barbecues, parties, and casual get-togethers. But, by including a few design features into your outdoor space, you can extend the enjoyment well into the fall and winter. Ensure your garden furniture is weather-resistant and drought tolerant, if you want to use your patio, swimming pool, fire pit, or outside space beyond the summer. Consider using powder-coated steel, teak, and polyresin wicker. These durable materials can survive the elements and last for many seasons. Cover it and bring in cushions and pillows when it rains or snows.

Final Word

Indeed, the winter season is a challenge to some. But, think of the benefits of having a beautiful winter scene. 

There's no excuse to be sad because of Old Man Winter. You may have a yard with year-round beauty by looking beyond the typical landscape ideas offered by some landscape architects. Think about how your landscape will appear all year, not just during the flowering season. It is part of taking an intelligent approach to landscaping. And choosing a landscape firm that can help you do this is always the best solution. If you're seeking a landscape business to assist you with winter landscape ideas, Green Garden Landscaping can assist you. 

There's no reason why a winter scene has to be monotonous. You may have an appealing landscape all year round by collaborating on a fantastic design. Schedule today and make your lawn, winter ready! Contact us at (919) 478-1852.