Finding interest in winter gardens is a challenge, most of the grasses left are starting to look a little dog eared and the first signs of spring bulbs are still a little way off.  This month we have picked a little bit of fire to liven up any dull border, the Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Beauty’.

Fiery Dogwoods add warmth to the winter garden

During the summer months this plant certainly isn’t anything to write home about, but during the winter months without leaves the stems are spectacular, particularly with low sunshine shining through the stems.

Planting tips

Cornus like moist soil in full sun and are perfect for alongside a pond or lake, planting in large groups.  During the summer they will provide a backdrop for other shrubs.

If left unpruned this dogwood will reach around 1.5m tall and 1.5m wide, although for the best winter stems prune in early spring to 2-3 buds or to the permanent frame.

Winter is a surprisingly good time to think about planning. It’s time to warm up your garden…