Key Factors to Consider when choosing the right trees and plants:

1. Cold-Hardy Plants: Winnipeg experiences cold winters, so it’s essential to choose plants that can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C to -35°C.
2. Sunlight: Winnipeg gets plenty of sun during the summer months, but winters can be overcast, so you should choose plants based on sunlight exposure (full sun, partial shade, or full shade).
3. Soil Type: Winnipeg’s soil is often clay-heavy, so you may need to amend the soil to improve drainage and add organic matter.
4. Wind Exposure: Strong winds, especially in winter, are common in Winnipeg, so it’s important to select plants and trees that can handle wind or use windbreaks like evergreens.

Trees

• Deciduous Trees:
  • Silver Maple: Known for its cold tolerance and beautiful autumn color.
  • Red Maple: Offers vibrant fall foliage and is hardy in Winnipeg’s climate.
  • Aspen and Birch: These trees are hardy and grow well in Winnipeg, adding beauty and interest, especially during fall.
• Evergreen Trees:
  • White Spruce: A native evergreen that thrives in cold climates and acts as a natural windbreak.
  • Black Hills Spruce: A cold-hardy evergreen that maintains its color throughout the year.
  • Pine and Fir: Great for year-round greenery and protection from wind.

Shrubs

• Lilacs: These cold-hardy shrubs bloom in late spring and add fragrance and color to your landscape.
• Forsythia: A hardy shrub with bright yellow flowers in early spring.
• Caragana (Siberian Peashrub): Drought-tolerant and suitable for low-maintenance landscaping.

Perennials & Flowers

• Hostas: Perfect for shaded areas, hostas thrive in partial to full shade and are known for their attractive foliage.
• Coneflowers (Echinacea): These drought-tolerant flowers do well in full sun and add color to your landscape.
• Black-eyed Susan: A hardy perennial that blooms bright yellow flowers and thrives in full sun.
• Daylilies: These plants are resilient, bloom for extended periods, and tolerate a variety of conditions.

Drought-Tolerant Plants

• Sedum (Stonecrop): A hardy, drought-tolerant plant that thrives in sunny, dry conditions.
• Purple Prairie Clover: A native plant that requires minimal water once established, adding beautiful color and texture.
• Little Bluestem Grass: A native grass that is drought-resistant and adds movement and texture to your landscape.

Groundcovers

• Creeping Thyme: A fragrant, low-growing ground cover that thrives in full sun and adds beauty to garden borders or pathways.
• Creeping Jenny: A perennial that works well as a groundcover and can tolerate both sun and partial shade.

Landscaping Tips:

• Windbreaks: Consider planting evergreens like Spruce or Pine in strategic spots to act as windbreaks, especially on the windward side of your property. These will help protect more delicate plants and create a sheltered microclimate.
• Mulching: Use mulch to help retain moisture, protect roots from freezing in winter, and keep weeds under control.
• Layering: Create visual interest by planting in layers. For example, place taller plants and trees at the back, with shorter shrubs and flowers in the front.
• Pathways and Outdoor Structures: Consider adding stone or gravel pathways to your landscape. These materials are durable in Winnipeg’s changing weather conditions. You could also add a pergola or small outdoor seating area for a cozy touch.

By selecting the right trees and plants, your Winnipeg landscape can thrive year-round with minimal maintenance