Embracing Late Season Growth - Ornamental Grasses and Shrubs

The arrival of fall and winter unveils new seasons of growth, with stunning color palettes in our gardens. Some gardeners might argue that one of the perks of this season is the variety of ornamental grasses and shrubs that come with it. They provide texture and visual interest to gardenscapes as we transition into winter. Let’s look into some recommended options for your garden as we transition to colder months. 

Why Ornamental Grasses?

Ornamental grasses are a fantastic addition to any garden, especially for the colder months. They add vibrant colors, graceful forms and dynamic visual interest to your garden landscape. Many grass varieties also have beautiful seed heads that reflect sunlight, creating a mesmerizing shimmering effect.

Switchgrass

The tall, upright switchgrass is adorned with fluffy seed heads that turn a lovely bronze by fall, bringing a soft, airy feel to gardens. They are a great option for prairie-style landscapes or holistic gardens. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, they are also drought-tolerant and attract beneficial pollinators, making it a must-have for your outdoor space! 

Chinese Silver Grass

Chinese silver grass or miscanthus sinensis is one of the most popular ornamental grasses, featuring striking feathery plumes that bloom in late summer, and turning silvery-white by fall. Growing sometimes up to 6 feet tall, this grass makes a stunning backdrop for any garden. Its foliage also turns golden-brown from green, providing a warm glow as temperatures drop.

Karl Foerster Grass

A winter garden must-have, this clumping grass is known for its upright and distinct form. Standing tall at about five feet, Karl Foerster grass features feathery flower spikes that start to emerge in June and into the later months. They turn a beautiful golden hue, and remain attractive in winter, providing structure and visual interest in the dormant season.

Shrubs for Your Winter Garden 

While ornamental grasses add texture and movement to gardens, shrubs bring more visual interest and color to your winter garden. They offer variety to landscapes with their lush foliage, flowers, and even berries late in the season.

Blueberry Bushes

Apart from providing delicious fruit in the summer, blueberry bushes also come with stunning foliage. Their leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange, making them an ornamental centerpiece in any gardenscape. They also attract birds and wildlife, making your garden more lively throughout the late seasons.

Oakleaf Hydrangea

This shrub is a standout beauty in fall and winter gardens. Their oak-shaped leaves turn deep burgundy, offering a striking contrast to its white flowers that bloom in summer. Its unique bark becomes more pronounced as the leaves fall, adding visual interest.

Burning Bush

If you’re looking for a plant to add vibrant splashes of red to your garden, look no further than the burning bush. They are famous for its brilliant fall foliage, with a fiery red that fires up the landscape. It’s a hardy plant too, with the ability to thrive in a variety of soils and climates, making it a solid choice for gardens everywhere.

Incorporating Grasses and Shrubs

To boost your garden’s appeal, consider combining grasses and shrubs for added depth. Taller grasses can act as backdrops for your shrubs, for a tiered effect that’s visually striking.

Plant your shrubs and grasses in clusters rather than on their own, to create a more natural landscape with stronger visual impact. For best results, choose a mix of plants that provide different texture and interest throughout different seasons. Think grasses and shrubs with varying colors, forms, and textures that grow across seasons. 

As you prepare your garden for the winter cold, consider adding some ornamental grasses and shrubs. Besides bringing beauty and interest to your landscape, they support wildlife and provide a habitat for birds and beneficial insects. With the right picks, you can turn your backyard into a vibrant oasis that continues to inspire into the colder months.