Can Landscaping Construction Be Done in The Winter?

Landscaping construction involves the planning, design, and implementation of outdoor spaces to enhance aesthetics and functionality – all of which can be massively affected by the weather. In this article, we will be dispelling some winter landscaping myths as well as talking through the advantages of working on your garden in the winter. 

Winter Landscaping Myths

One of the biggest misconceptions around the idea of winter landscaping is how impossible it can be. For example, many people will have you believe that you cannot complete construction or that your plants won’t survive the cold. We are to dispel these rumours and highlight how feasible garden construction in the winter can be. 

As long as proper procedures are followed during this time, you will have no problem completing projects in the colder season. Additionally, the notion that plants cannot survive the cold is inaccurate, as numerous cold-hardy plant varieties thrive during winter, offering opportunities for vibrant and visually appealing landscapes even in chilly climates.

Not to mention, the feasibility of garden construction in colder temperatures is often massively underestimated. With the impending frost, the ground may be harder but that doesn’t mean that with proper planning and techniques, our winter garden projects can’t go ahead. Using specialised equipment, insulating materials, and adjusting work schedules can help overcome the challenges associated with lower temperatures.

Advantages of Winter Landscaping

So, what are the advantages of undertaking landscaping projects in the winter? 

One significant benefit is the ability to complete projects before the busy spring season hits, allowing homeowners to enjoy their revamped outdoor spaces when the warmer weather arrives. If you are used to hosting large get togethers or garden parties, then this early completion of garden projects will not only provide immediate satisfaction but also ensures that the landscape is ready to thrive during the prime growing season.

Not to mention, the winter can also be the perfect time to get creative and produce unique outdoor designs. In the gardening industry, the winter is known as the ‘dormant season’, as many plants use this time to save energy. 

Whilst our flowers may not be in bloom, it doesn’t mean that the dormant period can’t be used for strategic transplanting and shaping which can take advantage of the reduced stress on vegetation. For example, the bare branches of deciduous trees and shrubs provide an opportunity to focus on structural elements such as hardscaping, pathways, and architectural features, which may be overshadowed by foliage in other seasons.

The winter landscape can also offer a distinct aesthetic, differentiating itself from other seasons. Picture this; blankets of snow, frost-kissed surfaces, and the play of the low winter sunlight – perfect for designing a garden landscape of dream. In this article from Pratic.com, titled ‘The winter garden, between timeless design and home automation’, the idea of designing your garden for the winter is discussed. This article states that ‘the winter garden represents a real house’s extension outwards: it is a space that embraces the surroundings, a meeting point among the house’s rooms and the neighbouring scenery’.  Our professional advice would be to give thoughtful consideration to your landscape design choices during the winter season; it’s a misconception that this period should be an afterthought.

Winter Planting Tips

Successful winter planting revolves around selecting plant varieties that  will truly thrive in the  colder climates and implementing protective measures to shield them from the upcoming frost. We would recommend:

• Winter-blooming Heathers: In the onset of early winter, this plant bursts into abundant blooms, displaying delicate hues of pale pink and purple that endure until the arrival of early spring. As the new foliage emerges, it unfurls needle-like leaves characterised by a vibrant yellow-green hue, accentuated by a distinctive copper tip.
• Juniper – Certain species of this hardy shrub will undergo a transformation in foliage colour during frosty periods, adopting a purplish-brown hue as part of their internal frost protection mechanism.
• Holly – Another beautiful winter addition is the festive holly plant. With eye-catching deep green foliage and red berries, this shrub looks great in a winter garden. 
• Pines – Another timeless choice for the winter season is the robust pine.

To shield plants from frost, your professional gardening team will utilise mulching as a protective technique. Applying a covering of any kind of  mulch, will insulate the soil, stabilising temperature changes and averting frost heaving that could harm plant roots. This protective layer not only helps with water evaporation but also hampers weed growth.

With the proper protective measures such as mulching  and maintenance during the winter months, you can create a vibrant and enduring winter garden. It’s also important to note that hiring a professional gardening team now, before spring arrives, would be extremely beneficial. 

Winter Landscaping Ideas

Winter Lights 

If you can’t landscape your garden with pops of colour from flowers and plants, why not add decorative lighting? Lighting can transform a winter garden from a dark space back to an enjoyable element of any home. Home & Garden highly recommends only using cosy lighting, because ‘fairy lights are intended to create a warm, twinkling glow, which should make you feel like you are sitting inside a chocolate box – perfect for Christmas’. 

Seasonal Plant Selections 

As mentioned above, whilst the winter can be a less colourful time for a garden, it doesn’t mean you can’t have some greenery around. As well as the range of plants mentioned above you can also opt for cold-tolerant vegetables such as kale, spinach, and carrots.  To  enhance the productivity of your winter garden your gardening team will be staying updated on weather forecasts, utilising companion planting methods, and implementing successive planting strategies for a consistent and abundant harvest.

Also, if you really want to protect your tender plants in the winter, then you can also ask your professional gardening team to create protective structures like cold frames and row covers to create a sheltered environment, shielding plants from frost and chilling winds. 

Outdoor Space Features 

With a less colourful garden comes less visual appeal. To enhance the aesthetics of your garden, we would recommend playing with art, sculptures, or decorative elements. These can add personality and style to your outdoor space. 

You can also opt for cosy outdoor seating areas which means that hosting garden parties, even in the winter, is extremely doable. By incorporating comfortable seating, cushions, as well as a variety of blankets or throws, you can transform your outdoor space. Consider adding a fire pit, outdoor heater, or even string lights to add warmth and ambiance, making your outdoor space inviting and enjoyable for both intimate gatherings and larger social events.

Professional Garden Services With BZ Gardens

BZ Gardens can help you with all of your outdoor and landscaping needs, even in winter. The winter months don’t just have to be about setting up your garden for the spring – you can enjoy your outdoor space all year round. If you want to learn more about our services, you can contact one of our team members on 01483 967160.