We’re visiting with Bonnie Plikaytis in north Georgia today.
One of the most difficult design features for me to accomplish in my Zone 7 woodland garden is to incorporate winter interest. After 10 years of gardening, I have learned a few things, which I share with you today.
In our woodland community in North Georgia there are many evergreen trees and shrubs native to the property, including mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia, Zones 4–9), American holly (Ilex opaca, Zones 5–9), and a variety of species of pine trees. In the areas of the property that were cleared during construction of our home, I have planted a variety of evergreens that tend to be deer tolerant to provide a backdrop for the deciduous trees and perennials in the garden.
Low-growing Japanese plum yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia, Zones 5–9) and ‘Savannah’ holly (Ilex ‘Savannah’, Zones 7–9), with its bright red winter berries, frame this dormant Japanese maple (Acer palmatum, Zones 5–9). The large garden boulder in front provides additional interest with its natural shape.
Evergreen low-growing plants are a real treasure. This variegated Rohdea japonica ‘Piccadilly Pace’ (Zones 6–10) attracts extra attention with its variegated leaves and red berries.
During summer and fall, the perennials and different varieties and sizes of Japanese maples that line this garden path are the stars. However, in winter and spring the hardy anise (Illicium parviflorum, Zones 6–9), anise (Illicium floridanum ‘Swamp Hobbit’, Zones 7–10), and several varieties of rhododendrons reign supreme with their evergreen broadleaf structure and early spring blooms.
Dwarf sweet flag (Acorus gramineus, Zones 6–9) is a grasslike ground cover that is evergreen in Zone 7. In this photo it is
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