The winter blues are a very real thing. The cold temperatures, shorter days, a lack of sunlight and an abundance of grey days can make the chilly season feel anything but delightful. However, there’s no reason to let the frosty mornings get the better of you and your garden. Brighten up your garden (and your winter!) by adding a touch of colour to your yard. We asked Becky Searles from Family Garden Life to give us some of her best tips.
“Your garden in winter is the perfect place to breath in the crisp air and get your blood flowing, so brighten up your day and head outside with the whole family,” says Becky.
1. Get painting
“A project high on my list this winter is a coloured path around my food garden. I have been busy painting rocks so we can create a path of colour that’s bright, fun and it will keep the weeds out. While the paint is out, have a go at adding some colour to a birdhouse or terracotta pots. The ideas are endless!”
2. Add a bee haven
“Encourage bees into your garden by creating a bee haven. Add some colourful flowers and get the kids to decorate your bee’s accomodation and take it to the next level.”
3. Add flowering legumes
“If you haven’t planted snow peas, peas or even broad beans, then winter in a great time to give them a go. They produce a spectacular display of delicate flowers which love the cooler months. Broad bean plants will flower late winter to early spring depending on your climate.”
4. Add flowers
“Consider planting edible flowers that are suitable for your climate and enjoy their colourful bloom and taste over winter. We love nasturtiums, lavender and marigolds. Your edibles can also act as companion flowers, which will help your food garden defend and protect against pests.”
5. Don’t forget your greens
“Don’t forget about your greens just because it’s a garden. You can grow awesome leafy greens this time of year that will bring your garden to life. Some of my favourites include Swiss chard or silverbeet, cabbage, kale and Asian greens. They all love the cooler weather and make your garden look lush and bountiful.”
This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.
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