Brighten Your Garden, and your mood, in the Bleak Midwinter

Bring Instant Cheer to Your Garden in January and February

The gardens at Sir Harold Hillier Arboretum simply glow in the low winter light

The start of the year can feel quite gloomy. Once the bright lights of the festive season go out, it’s easy to feel a little down. However, treating yourself and your garden to a few plants that truly shine during this time can lift your spirits.

Here are some of my favourite winter performers that will bring colour, scent, and life to your garden in January and February:

1. Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis)

Tiny, pure-white snowdrops are often the first flowers to appear. They push through frozen soil, signalling spring’s approach. These flowers look magical when planted in drifts beneath trees or simply enjoyed in pots near windows or doors.

2. Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemalis)

These cheerful, acid-yellow blooms open as early as January. While small, they really shine. Group them near paths or lawns for a warm, sunny splash that brightens up the landscape.

3. Crocus (Crocus spp.)

Crocuses bring jewel-bright purple, lilac, and gold tones to pots and borders from late January. They also provide early nectar for bees. Varieties such as Crocus tommasinianus are perfect for ‘naturalising.’ Once settled, they will reproduce and spread out year after year, making them great for lawns.

4. Hellebores (Christmas or Lenten Roses)

Hellebores are tough and elegant. They flower through late winter with nodding blooms in whites, pinks, and deep purples. I love the ‘Frostkiss’ series, which also features lovely marbled leaves that look good all year round.

5. Cyclamen coum

These hardy cyclamen bring delicate pink or white flowers and patterned leaves to shady patches. It’s best to buy them as ready-grown plants rather than bulbs, as bulbs can be less reliable.

6. Daphne odora

The scent from Daphne will stop you in your tracks and brighten your day. Its pink or white flowers appear in February, adding cheer to sheltered spots. Plant it in a border or pot that you pass regularly for a daily mood boost.

7. Dogwood ‘Midwinter Fire’ (Cornus sanguinea)

This deciduous shrub lights up bare beds with glowing orange-red stems. The best-coloured stems are from younger growth, so be sure to prune it hard in spring to keep those vibrant colours strong.

8. Winter Heathers (Erica carnea)

Tough and colourful, heathers bloom in pinks, purples, and whites throughout winter. They are ideal for containers or low borders but require more acidic (ericaceous) soil for the best colour.

Get Your Garden Glow Back

While planning your garden planting ahead is ideal, it never hurts to treat yourself to a few additions right now. You can get your garden glowing with warmth, even on the frostiest days. If you're wondering how to lift your spirits once the buzz of Christmas fades, head down to your local garden centre. Your new purchases will brighten your days.

I hope you find this information useful.

If you're interested in getting advice on how to add colour and interest to your borders all year round, or if you're looking to refresh your garden with some bigger planting and design changes, why not get in touch? Find out if you'd like us to work on your garden - info@vickylincolngardendesign.com.

Check out my other articles, including How do I know if I need a landscaper or garden designer? and The journey to your perfect garden – 5 essential tips. These are relevant whether you're creating your own garden or thinking about asking others to help you.

Winter flowering plants bring much-needed food for wildlife, such as solitary bees, as well as beauty for us.