The Nebraska landscape may very well be more about the winter months than any other season with the potential that it spans from October to April. Don’t dismay, rather embrace the idea of planning for displays of texture, form and evergreen color. This study of snowy, dormant days can provide ideas for how plants can offer visual contrast beyond the growing season.
Seedheads
Ornamental Grasses
Evergreens

Dwarf conifers like this false cypress are perfect for front door points of interest, but use caution in planting so it can have plenty of room to grow. All too often those cute little conifers found in nurseries are placed too close to sidewalks and houses, and they have to be ripped out just as they are developing their gracious forms.
Plant Forms

Slow growing, but worth the wait, Harry Lauder’s Walkingstick is a bit of an oddity. Some love it, while others can’t get over the fact that the leaves look like they’ve been hit with herbicide. Be sure to plant where it can mature to its full size of up to 10 feet in height and width. Added bonus - flower arrangers like the stems & spring catkins.

Curly Willow is a classic for floral arrangements, providing a contrasting linear form. It can do the same in the landscape, but be careful with the site selection as the older stems are prone to breakage. Place in an out of the way location where this isn’t a problem and enjoy the unique form that it offers.