Lately it looks more like winter than fall.
The skies have maintained a grey color and clouds have rarely parted to allow the sun any time to shine.
During this time leaves have started falling leaving behind the skeletons of the spring. Many of the summer plants have been removed and some fall plants like mums are displaying the last bit of color they have.
Not far down the road all of the plants that are kept on porches will be placed indoors to overwinter.
This typically leaves a landscape that looks like everyone has vacated the area and moved south in search of warmer places.
There are some great options to change that to help bring long lasting winter color to your house just in time for the holidays.
Visiting the local garden center can help you visualize your yard. If you act soon you will find pansies, ornamental kale, and violas in plenty of different colors.
Remember before you purchase anything choose the most healthy stock to start with regardless of price. After bringing them home be sure that you have the proper place prepared for them.
Amend the soil with potting soil and compost and make sure to keep the soil moisture consistent.
There are also plenty of other options for flowers to help brighten up your holidays but also don't forget that there are plenty of shrubs and trees that will add to the aesthetics of your yard.
Shrubs such as 'Winterberry' or 'Firethorn' produce loads of red berries that shine all winter long and also aid as a food source for birds and other animals.
There are also trees such as River Birch and Paperbark Maple that will please you with their bark texture and display but be careful of planting location as they can interfere with your home.
Even though some of these options may not be available to you this year, it is never too early to plant for some renovation in the spring.
Take the time to add a few dollars' worth of color to your house. You will be glad you did when it comes time to take those holiday photos with friends and family.
