For many, winter is a time to step away from the garden once the general chores are done. But if you long for a bit of life and colour in the garden over the cooler period, many different plants thrive in winter. Here are some of our top suggestions.
Nandina
Also known as ‘heavenly bamboo’, nandina are evergreen shrubs that come in various colours. Many, like the firepower variety, change colour to a deep red as temperatures cool. Plant in pots or the garden in free-draining soil rich in organic matter.
Brown/scented boronia
Blooming from winter to spring, brown boronias are small evergreen shrubs that bear highly scented, brown-coloured, bell-shaped flowers. It is said that some people can smell them far more than others. They are excellent as cut flowers and are ideal for native gardens—plant in full sun in free-draining soil.
Heuchera
Also known as ‘coral bells’, these evergreen perennials come in an exciting range of colourful leaves. The nickname coral bell refers to their small, sweet flowers hung like bells on each flower stalk. Best planted in part sun, they are easy-care, with little maintenance needed.
Cyclamen
An easy-care perennial plant that is perfect for a beginner gardener! Plant in shaded to partly shaded areas in pots or the garden. A drop in temperature triggers them to bloom, filling spaces with red, white, pink and purple flowers. When flowers finish, pluck the seed heads gently off the tubers to encourage more growth.
Hanging baskets
Along with the miniature cyclamen, you can also fill your winter hanging baskets with stock, pansies, viola, alyssum, calendula and polyanthus.
