While some bees hibernate through the winter, others periodically emerge to gather supplies for their colonies. Some bees emerge in January or February to prepare for the end of winter. Bees need access to pollen and nectar so that they can produce honey and replenish their hive's food supply.

A winter border consists of bee-friendly plants that bloom in the cold months. You'll support the bee population and enjoy the colorful flowers in the midst of the gloom.

Plant Large Shrubs

Witch hazel is a tall, spindly shrub that produces bright yellow flowers. You can make the towering shrubs your garden's focal point, arrange them in the background or plant them around your house for privacy. Some use witch hazel bark and leaves in holistic medicine. Photographers often take snapshots of snow weighing on the delicate branches.

Sweet box is a shrub with shiny green leaves and pink-and-white flowers that mimic holiday colors. You can decorate your porch or backyard with sweet box in your favorite planters. Plant them in autumn so that you can enjoy the flowers when they bloom in winter.

Add Delicate Flowers

A winter rose produces bright green leaves and soft white petals with yellow centers. These flowers bloom from autumn to spring, helping bees sustain their colonies throughout winter. They withstand snow and cold temperatures that would kill other plants. When snow falls, the frost enhances the flowers' beauty.

For a burst of color, winter aconite blooms in January and February. The bright yellow flowers and green leaves stand out against the bare backdrop. Winter aconite grows in small clusters that can cover your border. They peak in the winter and go dormant when spring arrives.

Plan ahead so that you can build your winter border before the temperature drops.