Tap into a true winter palette with plant and décor choices that embrace ruby reds, sapphire blues and emerald greens.

The winter season gets a bad rap, color-wise.

Skies are gloomy, nights are longer, and it’s all too common to wear darker colors in colder weather.

It can all feel quite… bland.

But winter is so much more than gloomy grays and muted neutrals.

If you’re looking to infuse color into your yard this season, tap into a true winter palette and be inspired by the vibrant jewel-tones of ruby red, sapphire blue and emerald green. Complement your bold color choices with a hint of gold to instantly elevate the impact of your outdoor oasis.

You don’t have to overhaul your whole yard to add pops of color to your space. The simplest choices in plants or décor done with these colors in mind will transform your yard into a true winter wonderland.

Ruby reds

Our favorite low-maintenance way to add red to our yards is fiery succulents. You get to enjoy the colorful fruits of your labor while barely creating extra work for yourself. Succulents are low-maintenance, sturdy choices that withstand drier conditions, don’t need much tending to, and make great container plants that fit even the smallest of spaces.

Adding these pops of red throughout your yard makes a striking statement when little else may be blooming in winter:

• Aeoniums are eye-catching succulents that form clusters of large, open rosettes and vary in shade from bright red to deep maroon. They require little water and adapt easily to most lighting conditions, making them a universal go-to for any garden style.
• Firestorm sedum plants can bring a strong punch of color to your yard if kept in sunny conditions. The red color of their edges gets brighter with more sun exposure even in cooler winter temperatures.
• Echeveria melaco’s chocolate-red rosettes offer a slightly more subtle shade of red that still become brighter with increased sun exposure.

Emerald greens

You don’t need a yard full of grass to enjoy the richness of greenery in your yard.

Whatever size yard you’re working with, container gardens are a fun way to add some greenery to your space and allow you to create a truly customized look. Select a few plants that vary in size and shape, and line your yard to create distinct, eye-catching flashes of green. Resilient, drought-friendly plants such as sages are easy-to-grow choices that are low-maintenance and amazingly aromatic. Or if you’re looking for function and style, try out basic green herbs like basil, rosemary or mint.

When choosing what potted plants to add to your yard, first check how much sunlight your outdoor space gets. It’s important to set yourself up for success and select potted plants that will thrive in your yard’s conditions. Visit your local nursery and consult their experts for advice.

Sapphire blues

Décor should not stop at the back door. Blue traditionally evokes calm and trust, so incorporating this color into outdoor décor in spaces used for entertainment and gathering makes perfect sense.

For smaller yards, add a blue bistro table to your patio. These two-seater sets often come in bright, fun colors and require little to no assembly, making it an easy way to expand your dining area outdoors. For larger dining sets, look for wicker lounge chairs in all blue or iron tables in funky sapphire tones.

If you’re itching to upgrade your backyard while sticking to a budget, a little change can go a long way. Keep most of your existing patio furniture but swap out old pillows or pots for upgraded blue ones. Or, invest in bright runners or chargers to add some blue-hued flair to table settings.

Looking for color in a subtle yet dramatic way? Add a brilliant blue rug to tie the entire outdoor dining area together. Outdoor rugs enhance and define your backyard and create a space encouraging relaxation and socialization all at the same time.

Go for the golds

If you want to be just the perfect bit of extra, look for one or two ways to brighten up your winter yard with gold.

Adorn your patio with a gold pot, hang a golden windchime in the garden, or incorporate gold silverware and décor into table settings. This sophisticated splash of color will elevate the style of your yard and is the perfect Midas touch when creating the outdoor space you’ve always imagined.

Have you incorporated any of these colors or design tips into your backyard? Show off your Yardtopia! Send photos to yardtopia@irwd.com and be featured in our Inspiration gallery and social media.