Floral of the Month: Create a Stunning Winter Planter with Perennials

Brighten the cold

Story by Sheila Paz + Photo by Mike Ritterbeck

As winter settles into the Lowcountry, bringing cool, crisp mornings (and the occasional dramatic overreaction to 40-degree weather), the idea of gardening might lose a bit of its charm. But don’t let the season put your green thumb on ice. Suzanne Barton, manager of The Green Thumb, has a solution perfectly suited to our mild winters: creating a winter-inspired planter arrangement. 

Why it works

Ever-blooming beauties: For a garden that thrives through the Lowcountry’s mild winters, opt for perennials that do well in partial shade and continue blooming season after season. These resilient plants require partial sunlight, making them a perfect low-maintenance yet colorful choice for any outdoor winter arrangement.

Cool and cozy: Capture the essence of January by choosing a color palette that reflects the season’s cool tones, accented with subtle pops of warmth. This balanced combination evokes the tranquility and beauty of winter, adding a refreshing touch to your outdoor space.

Square roots: When selecting a planter, a square shape is your best bet for creating a defined focal point. It helps anchor the arrangement and allows the flowers to be arranged at an angle, enhancing visual flow and highlighting the centerpiece.

Design tips

Start with height: Begin by placing the tallest plants, such as lemon cypress or sky pencil holly, at the center or back.

Layer thoughtfully: Fill in with medium-height plants like Heucheras and flax lily, and finish with trailing plants like ivy for depth and movement.

Deer-proof your display: Opt for deer-resistant plants to keep your arrangement intact.

Seasonal rotations: Keep your planter fresh by swapping out perennials throughout the winter for variety and interest. Delphinium’s tapering blooms guide the eye upward, giving your arrangement a dynamic, polished look.