7 Can’t-Miss Winter Landscaping Ideas

Winter in the high desert and mountainous regions can make landscaping seem difficult, but with the right forethought and a few simple tips, it’s possible to enjoy a stunning landscape all year round. Below are seven can’t-miss landscaping ideas for the winter months.

1. Use Gravel with your Mulch

While mulch can be absolutely beautiful, gravel is actually much better at holding and retaining heat. Rather than topping off your mulch with a new layer in the winter, consider adding a layer of gravel instead. During the heat of the day, when the sun is out, the gravel will absorb the heat from the sun and hold onto it after sundown. The mulch will help prevent moisture loss and offer an extra layer of insulation for those really cold days and nights.

2. Plant Evergreens

Evergreen trees are a must-have for winter landscapes, and they come in hundreds of varieties that can add interest to your property. Some options include cypress and spruce trees along with holly bushes and Baltic ivy. These plants stay green all year to give your yard some pizzazz.

3. Schedule a Power Wash

Desert and mountain regions tend to make use of rocks and concrete in their landscaping, and there’s no time like the wintertime to schedule a power wash. You can do it yourself if you have access to a pressure washer strong enough to clean your sidewalks, patios, walls, and more. Otherwise, you can call a pro to get the job done. You’ll be surprised at the difference it makes.

4. Decorate Concrete Walls

Concrete walls are awesome additions to your landscape any time of year, and they’re also perfect for sprucing up for the holidays if you choose. Adorn your walls with planters tied with ribbons and bows, or string some twinkling lights along the length of the wall for a cozy, festive look.

5. Keep the Winter Birds Around

For some homeowners, wildlife is the best part of the landscape, but it can be difficult to get the birds to stick around when it’s cold outside. Things like perennials and various ornamental grasses will offer just the right kind of shelter, so be sure to make these a part of your landscape. Furthermore, make sure to winterproof at least one water feature and keep suet cakes or suet mix available rather than plain mixed seed.

6. Use Rocks & Boulders as Focal Points

Rocks and boulders are essential for winter landscaping. They bring a sense of nature into your landscape, and they require very little maintenance. They’re easy to turn into focal points, too: place them strategically along a walkway and surround them with ornamental grasses, perennials, and evergreens that will draw the eye.

7. Consider an All-Weather Deck

If you’ve been considering building a deck, there’s no time like the present. An all-weather deck serves as an extension of your living space, even during the cold months! Choose non-slip decking and install an outdoor fireplace or fire pit to take the chill out of the air.

While things aren’t quite as colorful and green during the winter months, there’s no reason why you should settle for anything less than a beautiful landscape. Each of the tips above will help you keep your yard looking fresh and new all throughout the winter. Give Four Corners Materials a call if you need some inspiration!