Cold weather doesn’t mean you have to stop thinking about your garden. In fact, it’s the perfect time to plan for a vibrant and colorful spring.

Looking ahead and choosing the right plants now can help you create a stunning garden when warmer weather arrives.

Find Inspiration for Your Spring Garden

If you’re looking for ideas, flower trial gardens offer valuable insights into which plants perform best in real conditions. These trials highlight top-performing varieties based on beauty, durability, and overall performance.

Award-Winning Plants to Consider

Two standout plants recognized for their performance and popularity are salvia and dahlia. Both offer exceptional color and are well-suited for a variety of garden styles.

Salvia nemorosa: A Pollinator-Friendly Favorite

Salvia nemorosa has been recognized as a top garden plant for its beauty and environmental benefits.

Why Choose Salvia?

• Drought-tolerant and easy to maintain
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Produces striking flower spikes

One standout variety is Salvia ‘Big Blue’, known for its bold blooms and long-lasting flowers. It also works well as a cut flower for indoor arrangements.

Dahlia: Bold Color for Any Garden

Dahlias are perfect for gardeners looking to make a statement with vibrant colors.

Top Variety: Temptation Orange

This variety features bright orange blooms paired with dark foliage, creating a dramatic contrast. It performs well in full sun and maintains its color without fading.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Planning your garden early allows you to:

• Secure the best plant varieties before they sell out
• Design a cohesive layout
• Ensure proper spacing and plant combinations

Start Preparing for a Colorful Season

Taking time during colder months to plan your garden can make a significant difference in the results you see in spring and summer.

By selecting proven, high-performing plants and thinking ahead, you can create a landscape that is both beautiful and easy to maintain.