Flowers are a gardener’s delight. But what’s a gardener to do in the cold winter months, generally thought of as the dormant time for flowers? Don’t despair—there are winter flowers out there for the dedicated gardener!
Yes, growing flowers in winter can be tricky. Many flowers do go dormant in winter, but there are some that can survive in cooler climates, and some that can even live in cold ones.
Check out our guide to winter flowers, adapted from HomeAdvisor!
How Cold is too Cold?
If it’s already winter and you’re looking to plant, ask yourself a couple of questions. Is the ground already frozen? Then it is likely too cold for the plant’s roots to grow strong and healthy.
Next, how likely do you think it is to freeze again? Check the Old Farmer’s Almanac if you’re not certain. If you’re sure it won’t freeze again, you can plant some flowers that are particularly cold resistant. However, don’t be surprised if another freeze hurts or kills them; new plants just aren’t very resilient, so plant in warmer weather to ensure their survival.
Shrubs
Shrubs are your best bet to have some garden color throughout the winter. Choose plants that tend to fruit during winter, as brightly colored berries can cheer up even the dregs of winter!
Witch hazel is one of a few plants that will produce flowers during the winter, specifically in December and January. Another option is Japanese pieris, which flowers in the bridge between fall and winter.
If you’re in a milder climate, you may get some rosemary blooms. It’s also a great culinary herb that produces a lovely scent!
And, naturally, holly is a great option for winter gardening. Its bright berries are sure to get you into the festive spirit. Callicarpa and photinia, but relatives of the holly bush, also produce winter fruit in purple and dark red.
Winter Flowering Plants
There are also a handful of flowers that may survive the cold. Hellborus, snowdrops, and winter jasmine can survive harsher winters, and even some variants of roses and lilies can produce flowers in cold weather. With proper care, you may even get flowers from irises, hollyhocks, poppies, and carnations in the winter.
Naturally, if you’re looking for lots of variety, you’re best off investing in a greenhouse. But there’s no need to consign yourself to a dull and drab winter free of flowers. Plant of few of these winter flowers and shrubs and you can enjoy some color all year long.