Embracing the Chill: Winter Landscapes That Shine in Chicago’s Snowy Months
Winters in Chicago can be brutal, especially with the wind whipping off Lake Michigan and overcast skies making the whole world feel dull and gray. But that does not mean winter in Chicago is nothing more than just frosty air and snow-dusted streets, it is a season of striking beauty and unique opportunities for showcasing your landscape. For homeowners, embracing the chill means transforming outdoor spaces into a winter wonderland that thrives even in the coldest months. With thoughtful planning and the right elements, winter landscapes can exude charm, elegance, and practicality.
With over twenty years of experience serving the Chicagoland area, at Martin John Company we know how to create beautiful landscapes even in this varied climate. This article explores creative strategies to make your landscape shine during Chicago’s snowy months.
The Unique Beauty of Winter Landscapes
While spring and summer boast vibrant blooms and lush greenery, winter landscapes offer a different allure. Natural evergreens can still bring that much-needed reminder of color and life during such a monochromatic season. Snow-covered trees, frost-tipped branches, and shimmering icicles create a serene and minimalist aesthetic. Highlighting this natural beauty can make your property stand out even in sub-zero temperatures.
Selecting Winter-Friendly Plants
Evergreens are the foundation of winter landscapes. They provide unique structures and color in every season. There are more options than just a Christmas tree, however. Consider spruce and pine trees, with their deep green needles contrasting beautifully with the white snow. In the realm of shrubbery, boxwoods and yews are hardy, maintaining their shape even in freezing conditions.
There are more ways to add color to your landscape beyond evergreens. The red twig dogwood is unique in its vibrant red stems, which add a lovely vein of color through snowy backdrops. Another plant known for its bursts of vibrancy amidst the snow is the winterberry holly. These will offer a festive touch while also providing food for birds.
Some perennials also add to your garden all year. For example, ornamental grasses have dried seed heads that will add feather-like texture and movement. There are some perennials that continue to shine even after the blooming season ends, such as sedum. Its dried flower heads hold their shape and add visual interest through the snow. Hellebores are known as “winter roses” as they flower in late winter or early spring.
Incorporating Hardscaping Elements
Hardscaping elements will keep your landscape interesting without requiring the bright colors and shiny ceramic pots of the summer months.
Paths and walkways will make even a snow-dusted garden visually complex and picturesque. Pathways make your garden feel inviting and engaging, even when there are no flowers to admire. Additionally, heated walkways can be installed easily and are ideal for Chicago winters. They reduce the need for shoveling and improve safety, making your garden accessible year-round.
Another hardscaping element to consider is outdoor lighting. Winter days are short, but outdoor lighting extends the usability and beauty of your landscape. Lighting up your yard does not have to be limited to the holidays. Wrapping trees or shrubs with string lights will provide a magical glow and make the long nights of winter a little bit brighter. Pathway lights are also an important safety feature for driveways and walkways. You might also consider spotlighting important architectural features or standout plants.
Landscapes are not just limited to plants either. There are decorative features that will keep your garden visually interesting all year. Sculptural elements like statues, birdbaths, and ornaments can serve as focal points even when snow settles on them. Also, even though water freezes in the winter, do not let that stop you from winterizing your fountains and ponds to create reflections and add tranquility.
Designing for Wildlife
Winter landscapes are not just for human benefit—wildlife can thrive too. There is nothing that inspires winter beauty quite like a bright red cardinal on a snowy tree branch. Consider including bird feeders in your winter landscape design to provide food for cardinals, chickadees, and other birds that stick around through Chicago winters. Offer water sources as well, such as heated birdbaths that will prevent freezing and attract wildlife to your patio. Birdhouses too can be unique but adorable additions to your winter landscape.
Benefits of Embracing Winter Landscapes
Beyond brightening up the overall space, there are many benefits to embracing winter landscapes. Practical elements like heated paths and protective barriers make outdoor spaces safer and more usable during the winter months. There are environmental benefits as well, including native winter plants and wildlife-friendly designs that support the local ecosystems.
And of course, most importantly, they increase overall seasonal enjoyment. Thoughtful landscapes encourage outdoor activities like snowshoeing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the scenery.
Winter in Chicago does nott have to mean dull landscapes. With evergreens, vibrant winter plants, strategic hardscaping, and thoughtful seasonal décor, your outdoor space can thrive even in the chilliest months. By embracing the unique beauty of the season, homeowners can create inviting, functional, and visually stunning environments.
Need help sprucing up your winter landscape, Martin John Company’s team of landscaping designers and horticulture experts can help. Schedule a free consultation with one of our experts today.