We are now in the midst of the coldest weather of the season. Even so, there are still gardening chores to do. Remember to mulch marginally hardy perennials to hold in ground heat. Broadleaved evergreens continue to transpire (and therefore to lose water) in winter so don’t forget to water during dry periods. Transplanting can be done when the ground is not frozen; just be sure to water them in to remove air spaces that allow cold air to enter the root zone.

Winter is the time of year when structure in the garden is most important. Paths (straight or curving), walls (plants or hard scape), and focal points (artwork or plants) that often are not thought of during the months of heavy bloom and foliage, become the things most noticeable. Evergreen foliage and the structure of trees become the focus. Winter is time to reevaluate garden layout. Where do you need screening? Where is a spot of green needed? Does that fountain or other garden art need a winter backdrop?

However cold, we still can have a little color in the winter garden in eastern North Carolina. Lenten roses, camellia, winter flowering apricot and honeysuckle, as well as quince, daphne, paper bush, and rosemary add both color and fragrance to the winter garden. The blooms we get in January are our reminder that spring is not far ahead.