Plants That Can Survive in Containers During the Winter

Winter container gardening can be a great way to add color and life to your outdoor space, even in colder climates. When selecting plants for your winter containers, it’s important to choose those that can withstand the harsh conditions of winter. Here are some plants that can survive in containers during the winter:

Pansies and Violas

Viola Tricolor

Pansies and violas are popular choices for winter container gardens. These cold-hardy flowers come in a variety of vibrant colors and can withstand chilly temperatures. They are also relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a range of soil types. Pansies and violas prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist.

Cyclamen

Mix Pink White & Red

Cyclamen plants are known for their attractive, colorful flowers and heart-shaped leaves. They are well-suited for winter containers and can add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Cyclamen prefer partial shade and require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They also prefer cooler temperatures, making them a great choice for winter container gardens.

Polyanthus

Zebra Blue

Polyanthus plants produce clusters of bright, cheerful flowers and are a great addition to winter container gardens. They can tolerate colder temperatures and provide a burst of color. Polyanthus prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth.

Heathers

Agastache Hummingbird Perennial

Heathers are hardy evergreen shrubs that offer texture and color to winter planters. They come in various shades of green, bronze, and even vibrant pinks and purples. Heathers prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They are also relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a range of soil types.

Calendula

Pacific Beauty Mix

Calendula is a cold-hardy flower that blooms in shades of yellow and orange. It can withstand cooler temperatures and adds a cheerful touch to winter containers. Calendula prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

Flowering Stock

Flowering stock plants produce tall spikes of colorful flowers and can tolerate colder temperatures. They come in a range of hues, including pink, purple, and white. Flowering stock prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

Swan River Daisy

Flower Mix

Swan river daisy is a low-growing plant with delicate flowers that can withstand cooler climates. It blooms in shades of blue, purple, and white, adding a touch of charm to winter containers. Swan river daisy prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

Sweet Alyssum

Mulberry

Sweet alyssum is a low-growing plant that produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers. It is cold-tolerant and can thrive in cooler climates, making it a great choice for winter containers. Sweet alyssum prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

Painted Tongue

Mother In Laws Tongue

Painted tongue plants have unique, tubular flowers and can tolerate colder temperatures. They come in various colors, including shades of red, pink, and white. Painted tongue prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

Viola

Viola Johnny Jump-Up

Violas are similar to pansies and are known for their small, delicate flowers. They are cold-hardy and can add a charming touch to winter container gardens. Violas prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular watering to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from regular deadheading to promote healthy growth.

These plants are known for their ability to withstand colder temperatures and can bring color and life to your winter containers. When selecting plants for your winter garden, consider their hardiness and ability to thrive in your specific climate. Additionally, choose containers with proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and ensure the health of your plants. With the right plants and care, you can create beautiful winter container gardens that will brighten up your outdoor space even in the coldest months.

Tips for Winter Container Gardening

Here are some additional tips to help you create successful winter container gardens:

1. Choose the right container: Select containers that are the appropriate size for your plants and have proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. You can use a variety of containers, including clay pots, plastic pots, or even recycled containers like tin cans or mason jars.

2. Use the right soil: Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for container gardening. This type of soil allows excess water to drain away, preventing root rot.

3. Water appropriately: Water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting your plants sit in standing water, as this can suffocate the roots.

4. Fertilize regularly: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for container gardening. Follow the instructions on the packaging to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm your plants.

5. Protect from harsh weather: Cover your plants with frost cloth or burlap during extreme cold snaps to protect them from harsh weather conditions.

6. Rotate your plants: Rotate your plants every few weeks to ensure even growth and prevent them from leaning towards the light source.

By following these tips and selecting the right plants for your winter container garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving outdoor space even in colder climates. Remember to monitor your plants and adjust your care practices as needed to ensure their health and growth. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of winter container gardening.

For more information you can also read: Outdoor Planters for Cooler Climates & Planters Indoors and Outdoors