Embrace Winter Beauty with Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre

Published on 1 November 2023

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, the garden enthusiasts amongst us find solace in the winter garden's subtle charm. Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre, your trusted partner in all things horticultural, offers a wide array of winter perennials and annuals to transform your outdoor space into a wonderland of colour and life. In this blog, we'll explore the top 5 winter perennials, recommend some hardy plants, introduce you to colourful winter wonders, and provide tips on planting and protecting your garden from lower temperatures.

Top 5 Winter Perennials

Hellebores (Helleborus): Known as the "Christmas Rose" or "Lenten Rose," hellebores are a true winter gem. These hardy perennials produce elegant, long-lasting flowers in shades of pink, white, and deep burgundy, even in the frostiest months.
Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum): With its bright yellow blooms, this vigorous climber adds a splash of sunshine to your garden during the dreariest of days.
Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemalis): These small, golden-yellow flowers emerge in late winter, often pushing through snow cover, making them a delightful sight to behold.
Snowdrops (Galanthus): Snowdrops are the first heralds of spring, with their charming white flowers appearing in late winter. Plant them in clusters to create a beautiful, natural look.
Bergenia (Bergenia cordifolia): With its striking evergreen leaves and delicate pink or white flowers, Bergenia adds an elegant touch to winter gardens.

Hardy Winter Plants

In addition to the top 5 winter perennials, Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre also offers a variety of hardy plants that thrive in winter's challenging conditions. Consider adding the following to your garden:

Winter Heathers (Erica): These low-growing, evergreen shrubs offer a burst of colour in shades of pink, white, and purple, and they're perfect for providing ground cover.
Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis): Pansies are renowned for their hardiness and vibrant colours, making them a fantastic choice for winter containers and borders.
Bamboo (Phyllostachys): Bamboo adds a touch of exotic flair to your garden. Many bamboo varieties are cold-resistant and provide year-round interest.
Winter-flowering Witch Hazel (Hamamelis): This shrub boasts fragrant, spidery blooms in the heart of winter, making it a unique and delightful addition to any garden.

Colourful Winter Plants

While winter is often associated with muted tones, there are several plants that can bring a burst of colour to your garden:

Cyclamen (Cyclamen spp.): Cyclamen's striking silver-patterned leaves and bright flowers in shades of pink, red, and white create a dazzling winter display.
Ornamental Cabbages and Kale (Brassica oleracea): These plants provide a pop of vibrant purple, green, and white colours to your garden, especially in colder regions.

Planting and Protecting Your Winter Garden

The best time to plant winter perennials and hardy winter plants is during the autumn, allowing them to establish their root systems before the onset of colder weather. Here are some tips to ensure a successful winter garden:

Choose the right location: Ensure your plants are in a sheltered spot with well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plants.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to protect the roots and keep the soil temperature stable.
Water wisely: Water your garden during dry spells, but be cautious not to overwater, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
Protect from frost: Cover more delicate plants with frost cloths or horticultural fleece during severe frost to shield them from the cold.