Best Winter Interest Gardens: Top Picks for Year-Round Beauty
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Last updated: February 17, 2026
Winter can be a dreary time for garden enthusiasts, with most plants going dormant or dying off completely. However, there are still many ways to add interest and beauty to your garden during the colder months. One way to do this is by creating a winter interest garden, which focuses on plants that have unique features such as colorful bark, evergreen foliage, or interesting shapes.
When creating a winter interest garden, it’s important to consider the climate and growing conditions in your area. Some plants may not be suitable for certain regions, so it’s essential to choose varieties that will thrive in your specific environment. Additionally, it’s important to choose plants that will complement each other in terms of color, texture, and overall aesthetic.
One critical factor to consider when selecting plants for a winter interest garden is their hardiness. Winter weather can be harsh, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, so it’s essential to choose plants that can withstand these conditions. Look for plants that are labeled as hardy in your zone, which will ensure they can survive the winter months.
Overall, creating a winter interest garden can be a fun and rewarding project for gardeners looking to add some beauty and interest to their outdoor space during the colder months. By selecting the right plants and considering the unique features of each variety, you can create a garden that is both visually stunning and functional.
Best Winter Interest Gardens
As winter sets in, many gardens can start to look a little dreary and lifeless. But with the right plants, your garden can still be a beautiful and interesting space to enjoy throughout the colder months. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best winter interest gardens to help you create a stunning winter wonderland in your own backyard. From colorful berries to fragrant blooms, these gardens are sure to inspire and delight. So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover the best winter interest gardens out there.
Our top pick
- The flags are made of high-quality, durable materials that can withstand different weather conditions.
- The double-sided printing on the burlap is vivid and colorful, making it an attractive decorative statement for any garden, lawn, or backyard.
- The set includes four flags that represent each season, providing a unique outdoor decor for the whole year.
Cons
- The flag holder is not included in the package, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
- The flags are small garden size (12.5″ x 18″), which may not be suitable for those looking for larger flags.
- The designs may not appeal to everyone’s taste.
We’ve used the PIPISASA 4Pcs Seasonal Garden Flag Set in our garden for several months now, and we’re impressed with its quality and durability. We’ve had no issues with the flags fading or tearing despite being exposed to the sun and rain. When you weigh all the factors, this one rises above the rest.
Best for gardens
- The novel is beautifully written and plotted with heart-wrenching skill.
- The story is emotionally gripping and will make you cry and laugh.
- The characters are well-developed and relatable.
Cons
- The beginning of the novel may be slow and uninteresting to some readers.
- The story may be too emotionally intense for some readers.
- The book may be too long for those who prefer shorter reads.
If you’re looking for a heart-wrenching and emotionally gripping novel that explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, then Winter Garden is definitely worth reading. The story alternates between the past and present, following the lives of two sisters, Meredith and Nina, and their cold, disapproving mother, Anya. For this particular need, it’s the clear frontrunner.
Best polyester option
- The designer’s elaborate pattern is double-sided printed on the burlap, making the flag vivid and colorful.
- Made of machine-washable spun polyester, which is durable and weather-resistant.
- The garden flag is small in size (12.5″ x 18″), and the sleeve hanger fits most standard flag stands.
Cons
- The flag holder is not included.
- The flag is made of burlap, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
- The design may not be suitable for those who prefer a more traditional or understated look.
We were impressed with the quality of the PIPISASA Patriotic American Star and Strip Floral Welcome Gnome Garden Flag. Overall, we believe that the PIPISASA Patriotic American Star and Strip Floral Welcome Gnome Garden Flag is an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of patriotism to their outdoor space. It delivers exactly where it counts most.
Best for outdoors
- The flag is made of durable, machine-washable polyester, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- The design is double-sided, so it looks great from any angle.
- The flag is produced in the USA, ensuring high-quality and vibrant colors.
Cons
- The flag is small, measuring 12.5 x 18 inches, so it may not be visible from far away.
- The material is thin, so it may not hold up well in harsh weather conditions.
- The design is specific to winter birds, so it may not be suitable for year-round use.
We recently purchased the Toland Home Garden Winter Birds Flag for our own winter garden, and we’re happy with our purchase. Overall, we would recommend the Toland Home Garden Winter Birds Flag to anyone looking for a festive addition to their winter garden. It’s a well-earned pick that lives up to the promise.
Best for winter
- Comprehensive guide to gardening
- High-quality video production
- Taught by an experienced gardener
Cons
- May not be suitable for experienced gardeners
- Some information may be repetitive
- Requires an internet connection to access
Melinda is an experienced gardener and her expertise shines through in the course. It covers a wide range of topics including soil preparation, plant selection, and garden design. When the temperature drops, this hardy pick keeps going strong.
Best for lawns
- Adds visual interest to your outdoor garden
- Reflective surface provides endless possibilities
- Can be used to decorate various spaces such as garden, yard, lawn, kitchen, bedroom, and living rooms
Cons
- Only available in one size
- May scratch easily if not handled with care
- May require regular cleaning to maintain its shine
This metal gazing ball is a piece of art decor that can easily meet your different decoration needs. It is also a great addition to a pond or pool area, as it can float on water. Check it out here It’s a well-earned pick that lives up to the promise.
Best for kids
- Teaches children about the importance of taking care of plants
- Beautiful illustrations that capture the magic of winter gardening
- Includes a recipe for a delicious Thanksgiving meal made from the harvested plants
Cons
- The story might be too simple for older children
- Some readers might prefer a more in-depth guide to winter gardening
- The book might not be suitable for those who don’t celebrate Thanksgiving
The book is perfect for parents who want to introduce their children to the joys of gardening. The book is perfect for young readers and their parents, and it’s a great way to spend a cozy winter afternoon together. It’s a family-friendly pick that parents will genuinely appreciate.
Buying Guide
When choosing plants for a winter interest garden, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for plants that have interesting foliage, colorful stems or bark, and winter blooms.
Interesting foliage can come in many forms, including evergreen leaves, variegated leaves, or leaves with unique textures. Plants with colorful stems or bark, such as dogwoods or red twigged maples, can add a pop of color to an otherwise dreary winter landscape. And winter blooms, such as hellebores or witch hazel, can provide a much-needed burst of color during the colder months.
When selecting plants, it’s important to consider their hardiness zone. Make sure that the plants you choose are suitable for your climate and will be able to survive the winter temperatures in your area.
In addition to considering the features of the plants themselves, it’s also important to think about the overall design of your winter interest garden. Consider incorporating different textures and heights to create interest, and think about how the plants will look in relation to each other throughout the winter months.
Here are a few key features to consider when selecting plants for a winter interest garden:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Foliage | Look for evergreen leaves, variegated leaves, or leaves with unique textures. |
| Colorful stems or bark | Consider plants with stems or bark in shades of red, yellow, or orange. |
| Winter blooms | Look for plants that will bloom during the winter months. |
| Hardiness zone | Make sure that the plants you choose are suitable for your climate. |
By considering these features and taking a thoughtful approach to design, you can create a beautiful and interesting winter interest garden that will brighten up even the coldest months of the year.
