Cold; Dark; Bleak; Dreary. Sometimes the thought of winter can conjure up these terms. And planting beautiful shrubs and flowers seems like a far-off project for spring. But with the right tools, A.K.A. evergreens and berries, it’s possible to brighten up your winter landscape! 

I try to make my autumn window boxes, filled with bright oranges, reds, pinks and purples, last as long as possible. In a perfect world, they would take me right through Thanksgiving. But reality is, living in the northeast, we are just one hard frost away from dry, brown shoots coming from our planters.

I actually never used to display window boxes in the winter. I would sadly compost my mums and ornamental cabbage and then dream about pansies and petunias until April. Then I just decided that there had to be something in between. And now I actually look forward to creating my festive winter flora.

There are some nuances to it. You want to work with things that will last for a while. Think of it like looking for a Christmas tree. You want the one that the needles aren’t going to fall off of in a week! As always, research what’s available to you in your area and what works for your climate.

p. s. You can always use faux greens & berries, there are some very realistic options out there now.

To help get you started, check out these pointers:

Potting Shed: Filling Window Boxes with Christmas Greenery  (from Home is Where the Boat Is) 

DIY Winter Window Boxes  (from Gardener’s Oasis)

13 Winter Window Boxes with Loads of Curb Appeal  (from the Spruce)