Dwarf conifers are a huge asset to the winter garden, because they are lovely year round. Oriental spruce ‘Barnes’ is one of many choices. Because it grows very slowly, only one to three inches a year, Barnes rarely needs pruning. Given time, it can reach three feet high. Keeping good green color all winter long, Barnes has short half inch needles arranged thickly on upright short branches and a ball-shaped globose form. A native of Asia, it prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Once established it tolerates dry soil and is not a favorite food for deer.

Jewel orchid
Haemaria discolor or Ludisia discolor

Jewel orchids are truly the plant for folks that want to ease into growing orchids but are afraid to try. This gem belongs to the terrestrial orchids--cascading ground-dwelling plants. Its dark velvety, shiny leaves with contrasting red or gold veins remain attractive year-round. An 18” flower spike emerges in winter, producing small, white flowers. Indirect sun, normal room temperatures, and plenty of humidity are all that’s necessary to keep them happy. At 6-8” high, they enjoy growing in terrariums, such as Wardian cases. Plant in a mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and potting soil. Top with moistened sphagnum moss to increase the humidity. Easily propagated from stem cuttings.

Andromeda, Lily of the Valley shrub
Pieris japonica

Even before spring flowering, Andromeda has been showy for months.  Its rusty-gold buds develop the summer before spring bloom, contrasting all winter long with andromeda’s deep green leaves.  Some varieties feature pink or red buds.  Andromeda is one of the earliest and longest blooming spring shrubs, its cascades of white blossoms like lily-of-the-valley on steroids. New foliage can be reddish to gold-green.  Height varies by variety and conditions from 4 to12 feet.  Full to partial shade is critical to avoid lacebugs that suck color from leaves. Provide organic acid soil and sufficient water for this Asian native, and welcome lacebug-devouring spiders.      

Terrariums

Terrariums, the glass or plastic enclosed miniature gardens that were all the rage in the ‘70s, have made a comeback.  Designing and planting one is a fun project for plant lovers of all ages and make a wonderful gift.  Get creative!  Place a single plant under a glass cloche or decide on a theme like the desert, forest, or even the beach, and let your imagination take off.  Just remember when selecting plants to make sure they have the same cultural requirements.  Begin by layering gravel, charcoal and about two inches of potting soil in the container.  Use an odd number of plants of varied heights, then decorate with whatever you choose to finish off your own little ecosystem.