Top 10 Best Plants to Grow in Autumn and Winter 2025

Even as the leaves fall and temperatures drop, gardeners shouldn't worry. Autumn and winter are suitable seasons for planting specific types of plants that enjoy cooler weather. In this post, we will explore the top 10 best plants to grow in autumn and winter 2025, ensuring your garden stays vibrant and productive during the colder months.

1. Pansies

Pansies are a favorite for autumn and winter gardens because of their rich colors and frost resistance. These hardy flowers can bloom even in temperatures as low as 15°F, bringing life to your garden when most plants have gone dormant.

Pansies blooming in a winter garden

Pansies enjoy well-drained soil and can grow in containers or directly in the ground. They thrive in areas with partial to full sunlight, making them adaptable to various garden settings.

2. Ornamental Kale

Ornamental kale is not just pretty; it is also remarkably resilient. Its colorful leaves can withstand freezing temperatures as low as 20°F, making it an excellent addition to your autumn and winter landscape.

These plants excel as border plants or in mixed containers, adding texture and color. They prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-drained soil to flourish.

3. Winter Jasmine

Winter jasmine is a delightful shrub that produces bright yellow blooms from late winter and can last until early spring. It enhances your garden with color at a time when few plants are blooming.

Winter jasmine showcasing bright yellow flowers

Winter jasmine is low-maintenance and adaptable to a range of soil types. It thrives even in neglect and requires minimal watering once established, suitable for beginner gardeners.

4. Hellebores

Hellebores, often called Lenten roses, are among the first flowers to bloom in spring and can be planted in autumn. These perennials are renowned for their unique, cup-shaped flowers that can even push through the snow.

They prefer shaded areas and well-drained soil. Hellebores are perfect for woodland gardens or shaded borders, providing beauty in the winter months.

5. Garlic

Garlic is a fantastic autumn crop. It requires a cold period for proper development, meaning planting in the fall helps establish healthy roots for a bountiful summer harvest.

Garlic prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and it’s a low-maintenance plant that can easily grow in garden beds or containers. You can expect a yield of about 10-15 bulbs per clove planted, making it an efficient garden choice.

6. Cyclamen

Cyclamen are delightful plants that produce beautiful flowers in pink, red, and white shades. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can bloom throughout winter, making them a great pick for indoor or outdoor arrangements.

Cyclamen flowers adding color to a winter garden

Cyclamen prefer well-drained soil and indirect sunlight, which makes them perfect for shaded areas or as houseplants.

7. Winterberry Holly

Winterberry holly is a deciduous shrub with bright red berries that appear in winter, contrasting nicely against bare branches. This plant not only enhances visual interest but also attracts birds like cardinals and robins to your garden.

Winterberry holly thrives in moist, acidic soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It’s an excellent option for naturalized areas or as a focal point in your landscape.

8. Snapdragons

Snapdragons are versatile flowers that can be planted in the fall for winter blooms. Available in various colors and heights, they are suitable for borders, containers, or as cut flowers.

Snapdragons prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They can grow up to 36 inches tall in optimal conditions and are relatively easy to cultivate, adding a cheerful touch to your winter garden.

9. Thyme

Thyme is a hardy herb that can be planted in autumn and will thrive throughout winter. This fragrant herb is perfect for culinary uses and can easily grow in garden beds or containers.

Thyme prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and it is drought-tolerant once established. Besides enhancing your garden’s beauty, it also adds great flavor to your dishes.

10. Winter Aconite

Winter aconite is a charming bulb that produces bright yellow flowers in late winter, often emerging through snow. Their vibrant blooms can bring cheer to your garden, contrasting against the often drab winter landscape.

Winter aconite flowers brightening up a winter landscape

Winter aconite prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, making it ideal for naturalizing in woodland settings or as ground cover.

Embrace Your Winter Garden

As you prepare your garden for the colder months, consider planting these top 10 best plants for autumn and winter 2025. From the vibrant pansies to the resilient garlic, these plants will not only beautify your garden but also provide fresh produce and lovely blooms. With proper care and attention, your garden can remain a source of joy and inspiration, even amidst winter's chill. Happy planting!