Christmas in July: 4 Plants That Thrive in Summer and Winter
Alright, we’ll hop on the Christmas in July trend, landscaping style. When it comes to choosing plants that beautify your gardens in the Chicagoland area, most of us think about spring, summer, and fall. After all, who is worried about landscaping when we’re dealing with snow and ice?
But if the curb appeal of your home is important to you year-round, there are plants and shrubs you can choose that remain lovely even when the snow flies. Here are some of our favorites.
Related: Are Your New Landscape Design and Driveway Winter-Ready in Hinsdale, IL
1. Red Osier Dogwood or Red Twig Dogwood
When it comes to shrubs, most of us think of them being relatively low to the ground. But the red osier or red twig dogwood (pictured above) can reach some pretty impressive heights – up to 12 feet if not pruned. What’s extra special about this little (big) beauty is that it is truly impressive all year long. In the spring, you’ll be treated to green foliage against red branches. In summer, small white flowers and white berries arrive, and in the fall, the leaves change along with the trees. But in the winter, after the foliage sheds, you are left with those stunning red branches. Just imagine how beautiful it will look against a backdrop of freshly fallen snow!
2. Upright Sedum or Stonecrop
Upright Sedum is a hardy plant that is actually in the succulent family, and its leaves show that parentage. They grow well in not-so-great growing conditions – sandy or poor soil isn’t much of a problem, and they are quite drought-resistant. Midsummer to fall, you’ll be treated to shoots with tight clusters of small flowers, and if you leave the flowers right where they are, they will dry out to a natural light brown color. The shoots, even when dry, are sturdy enough to withstand ice and snow. Come early spring, pull out the shoots, and you’re ready for another season with this low-maintenance plant.
Related: Transform Your Outdoor Space With Unique Plantings in Wheaton and Burr Ridge, IL
3. Mini Twists White Pine
We’d be remiss not to have an evergreen on our list, and the Mini Twists White Pine is a great option for your garden. They are a dwarf conifer, so at a maximum, they will grow to be about 6 feet tall. They start out a nice little globe shape, and if you keep them pruned, they can remain that way, making them perfect complements to an ornamental design. The needles are a bluish-green, a little different than many evergreens, and are a great backdrop for just about anything else in your garden.
Related: Using evergreen shrubs in your landscape design for privacy in Hinsdale, IL
4. Red or Black Chokeberry
Both the red chokeberry and black chokeberry are great choices if you are looking for a shrub that packs a color punch. Come spring, both varieties produce whitish-pink flowers with green leaves that then transition to red or black berries in the summer. When autumn rolls around, the foliage transitions to red, and the berries remain well into the fall. What’s more, the berries will attract birds to your garden, particularly as they are looking for food as it gets chillier.
By planning ahead, you can ensure your garden is stunning even when we’re in the midst of a chilly Midwestern winter. In just a few short months, as you decorate your home for the holidays, you’ll be glad you thought about Christmas in July!
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