Why Does a Garden Need a Backbone for Winter?

January 18th, 2022

We can all agree that evergreens are important. They’re the backbone of the garden after all. But what happens when the backbone isn’t just supporting a garden, but inspiring it? Cue colorful evergreens. They pull double duty in the garden, and this winter we’re really taking notice.

Lately, when we’re outdoors, the colors are very subdued, the temperatures are low, and it’s easy to spot our stolid companions. Usually, it’s just that though, a passing appreciation for the comfort and stability that these ordinary evergreens bring. Now, imagine seeing the addition of vibrant chartreuse or shocking blue. Suddenly the garden feels playful again, rich with color, interest, and depth!

Colorful evergreens are a delight to see in the winter, but they also skyrocket the number of interesting companion plantings you can make during the growing season! (And who isn’t doing a little scheming about their garden during the winter?) Rely on golds, chartreuses, and blues to be the beautiful backbone to your flower-filled plantings and a whole new world of possibility opens up.

Check out some of our favorite colorful, texture-rich evergreens:

Anna’s Magic Ball® arborvitae

Aquavita™

juniper

Pinpoint® Gold

false cypress

Dig In

Watch 

Click to watch

Which arborvitae is right for you? Find out as you see them in the garden.

Listen

Click to listen

Learn about Norfolk Island Pines – the evergreens you see indoors at the holidays.

Do

Click to learn

Make ice lanterns in 6 steps with materials you can find in your garden and home.