The trick to beautiful winter landscaping?

Choose plants, trees, and design elements that make the most of the season’s special beauty.

Many of those trees andsome shrubsare smaller, meaning they’re easier to find spots for in the landscape.

red twig dogwood

Credit: Kevin J. Miyazaki

A few of Pierson’s favorites includedogwood shrubsandbirch trees, both of which offer outstanding winter color and texture.

“Aholly bush with berriesis also really beautiful,” she says.

Consider Evergreens

Evergreens are workhorses in the winter landscape for many reasons.

Winterberry Ilex verticillata

Credit: Cynthia Haynes

Beyond that,evergreensjust make good design sense, Pierson says.

“I always like to have at least one or two evergreens and work a border around those.

When you’replanting a new bed, you always want to include at least one evergreen.”

snowy yard and bushes

Credit: Marilyn Ott

As it turns out, the solution toenhancing your winter gardenmight not be a plant at all.

“Winter is the best time to consider hardscape,” Pierson says.

Highlight the standout design features in your winter garden with outdoor lighting.

snow-covered garden

Credit: Lynn Karlin

Dress Up Summertime Containers

Window boxes, hanging baskets,winter-hardy containers: All are indispensable for winter landscaping.

“Anything with color in it,” she adds.

Choose Four-Season Perennials

Some perennials have evergreen foliage, making them a great option for winter landscaping.

red berries evergreen winter container

Credit: Kevin Miyazaki

The further south you live, the more options you’ll have for evergreen perennials.

Bob Stefko

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Hellebores

Credit: Richard Hirneisen

Penstemon seed heads in garden

Credit:Bob Stefko