No matter the state of my yard, my containers always bring a vibrant flair to my patio and entrance. As winter approaches, I'm looking for ways to refresh my fall containers.
If you're passionate about container gardening, you'll find that seasonal adjustments can lift your spirits and enhance your outdoor space during winter's dreariest days. Transitioning containers is simple; many fall plants endure through winter, while others can be replaced. You can also incorporate festive touches for the holiday season.
To gather some expert tips, I consulted garden designers who generously shared their favorite methods for updating fall containers for winter.
5 Ideas for Transitioning Fall Containers to Winter
If you've recently switched summer hanging baskets to fall, these suggestions will help prepare your containers for the coldest season, ensuring colorful displays even in the harshest conditions.
1. Select Evergreens for Structure
Creating a stunning winter garden starts with frost-resistant plants capable of withstanding cold temperatures.
According to garden designer Lee Miller, incorporating reliable evergreens is essential for container arrangements.
'When updating fall containers for winter, I keep cold-hardy plants as the core of the design,' she shares. 'These include dwarf evergreen shrubs like dwarf Alberta spruce, juniper, and boxwood.'
These shrubs will provide visual interest throughout winter, especially when frosted.
Check out Dwarf Alberta Spruce from Fast Growing Trees
Explore the selection of juniper at Nature Hills
Discover the variety of boxwood at Nature Hills
Lee Miller is a garden designer and consultant with over 29 years of experience in horticulture. She has authored six gardening books, including her latest, The Houseplant Guide: How to Easily Select & Maintain Indoor Plants. Lee is also a National Garden Bureau Member.
2. Incorporate Seasonal Stems
Winter containers can be more than just living plants. You can also arrange festive stems and foliage for a seasonal touch.
'To enhance the winter look, I like to use fresh cuttings of holly, winterberry, cedar, juniper, or pine around the edges of pots,' says Lee. 'For a stylish addition, red twig dogwood or curly willow branches work well as vertical thrillers.'
Ensure you have the right pruning tools for clean cuts. These Fiskars bypass pruners from Amazon are ideal for the task.
'This approach is low-maintenance, and you can even incorporate pinecones,' she adds.
'Fill your container with soil or sand to stabilize the arrangement, and enjoy mixing different elements for a delightful winter display,' she notes.
3. Choose Winter-Blooming Plants
While many fall flowers are frost-resistant and can last into winter, some less hardy varieties may not survive.
Replace these with winter plants that thrive in cold weather, including those that bloom even in frigid temperatures.
'I love using flowering kale and cabbage, paired with various heucheras,' Lee recommends.
Other winter blooms include heather (available on Amazon) and winter pansies (available on Amazon). Hellebores also provide lovely blooms.
These plants can also be used in a winter window box.
4. Use Frost-Resistant Pots
This practical tip will not only enhance your winter container display but also consider the materials used for your pots.
'I suggest using frost-resistant fiber cement planters (available on Amazon),' advises Laura Janney, CEO of The Inspired Garden Masterclass.
'If you have non-frost-resistant or fragile containers, move them to a sheltered location to prevent damage. I've seen strong winds topple beautiful heavy pots.'
Other suitable containers for frosty weather include barrel planters (available on Amazon), which add rustic charm to winter displays.
Laura Janney is a celebrated landscape architect and designer, recognized for her work in cottage garden design. She recently received the 2023 Houzz Best in Design award for her achievements in the New York area.
5. Decorate Containers for Christmas
In addition to festive stems, consider adding ornaments and decorations for a Christmas-themed pot.
'You can bring some sparkle to your containers with seasonal picks from your local craft store,' Laura suggests.
Items like wreath fillers (from Amazon) can be easily incorporated into your winter containers.
Adding outdoor fairy lights can also enhance the festive vibe, suggests Lee.
Look for waterproof outdoor fairy lights on Amazon to brighten your containers.
Do Winter Containers Need Watering?
Yes, winter containers require watering, but less often than summer ones. Container plants are more prone to drying out, so monitor them closely. However, avoid overwatering, particularly when frost is expected, as this can lead to oversaturation or frozen roots. Refer to our guide on watering plants before frost for additional insights.
There's still an opportunity to plant container plants that will bloom by Christmas. Utilize the essential gardening supplies listed below to ensure your success:
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
This specially formulated potting mix supports potted plants with proper drainage and essential nutrients.
Concrete Plant Pot
This concrete planter is frost-resistant and features a drainage hole for effective moisture control.
Soil Moisture Meter
Use this meter to determine when it's time to water your container plants.
