Your backyard can be a winter wonderland no matter what your weather conditions may be. I live in a zone 5 climate so I may have several feet of snow on the ground at any given time or a dusting. So far I have a dusting. This means my snow shovels are setting idly by but my outdoor activities are shortened. (I really don’t care for colder weather.)
But in the winter I have the most beautiful views of the Conewango creek and Akeley Swamp and all the wildlife activity it offers. This morning there was a fresh light dusting of snow on the branches and icicles were forming on the low branches on the creek bank. As the sun peaked over the hill the water sparkled. What a relaxing site.
And once in a while, even on a cold dreary day, a canoe will pass by the house.
Many people also have interesting bushes or trees that offer splashes of color in a winter landscape. Colored bark or twig and berries add to the backyard and any hardscape creates interesting patterns and forms in the winter.
If your lucky enough to be able to use the outdoors at night with only a sweater or coat outdoor kitchens and fire pits may be a wonderful; options to add activity and warmth to your winter days.
Ideas to add interest to your backyard in the winter months.
Sunrooms, enclosed patios, balconies and porches will add a place to enjoy the outdoors without the cold winds and weather.
A room that has a view of an interesting outdoor landscape will help give the feel of more room and bridge the indoors and outdoors.
The addition of more plants, particularly those with flowers will add color to your rooms and remind you of gardens.
Any warmer day is a perfect time to fire up the barbeque. It’s an amazing what a fire outdoors will do to add warmth and a change of pace to a day.
The addition of bird feeders and birdhouses will add activity and fun to your backyard. Your can watch the antics of the birds and try to identify the different varieties. And the varieties of houses available will add color to your backyard.
I have always found winter the perfect time to evaluate your backyard and plant any changes for the following year. A chain link fence is really handy for your backyard. It will give you extra privacy and security. It’s a time to slow down and appreciate family, friends and nature. Of course I am still looking forward to spring.
