Just because summer has ended doesn’t mean your garden has to! Plenty of beautiful, hardy plants can flourish in the colder months — making winter gardening a rewarding (and surprisingly low-maintenance) hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, these five plants are perfect for adding a little life to your winter landscape.

1.  Coneflower

Coneflowers can bloom even in winter, as long as they’re properly cared for after going dormant in the fall. Available in a rainbow of colors, you can plant a monochrome garden or go bold with a multicolored mosaic.

2. Catmint

This vibrant pink plant is surprisingly winter-hardy — but it does require a bit of patience. Catmint needs a full year of sunlight and watering to get established. Once it’s settled, it thrives on its own through the darker, drier months.

3. Winterberry

The name says it all. Winterberry is a true seasonal star, with bright red berries that pop after the plant sheds its autumn leaves. It transforms with the seasons, offering a fresh burst of color when everything else is fading

4. Winter Pansies

These slow growers are worth the wait. With the right fertilizer, winter pansies can last up to 5–7 months and bloom into vibrant, colorful flowers — even in freezing temperatures. They’re one of the most cheerful ways to brighten up a cold day.

5. Lily-of-the-Valley

Delicate and timeless, Lily-of-the-Valley loves the cold. Native to the cool climates of the Northern Hemisphere, this shade-loving plant is perfect for winter gardens. Just give it partial sun or full shade and enjoy its dainty beauty.

Thinking about starting a winter garden? It’s a rewarding way to stay connected to nature and add some charm to the chilly season. Most winter plants are surprisingly easy to care for — and they pay you back with months of beauty. Happy planting!