Now that spring is hear, you are probably thinking that you can't wait until the snow falls next year.  Just kidding.  If you are anything like me, snow is the last thing on your mind.  People are getting ready to get out side and gardeners are getting the itch to get plants into the ground.. Winter might be on your mind if you are planning the items that you want to add to your garden or landscape.  You may want to consider some items that will look good, even when the temperatures are cold.

Evergreens are always a popular choice.  Especially for those who are planting trees and shrubs for the purpose of privacy.  Since they will stay green year round (like the name implies), privacy will not be lost when deciduous plants loose their leaves.  For those that are wanting the green color all year but don't have the room for large tree, there are a few options.  The Arborvitae Techny (Thuja occidentalis 'Techny') only grow to about 20 feet.  If that is still too big, then check out the Arborvitae Globe (Thuja occidentalis 'Globe').  Although they are still considered a tree, they only grow to about 4 to 6 feet in height and spread.  If you are looking for shrubs, then boxwoods (Buxus) might be the way to go.  There are several varieties that only grow to a few feet in height and spread.

If you are looking for a little color for your winter landscape there are several plants to choose from.  Hollies (Ilex) brighten things up with their red berries.  There are several to choose from, and there are even some evergreen varieties that will provide both red and green colors.  Burning bushes are another great addition for color.  They have brilliant red leaves through late fall and also produce some berries during the winter.

Even plants that don't retain leaves or produce berries can add character to your landscape in the winter time.  For instance the Dogwood Arctic Fire (Cornus 'Arctic Fire') has bright red bark that looks great once the leaves fall off.  It shows through especially nice through a blanket of snow.  If you are not concerned with adding color, try the Lavender Twist Weeping Redbud - PP10328 (Cercis canadensis 'Covey').  The twisted branches are neat to look at even if there are no leaves.