Shrubs producing vibrant berries the answer for drab winter gardens

Shrubs producing a feast of vibrant berries could be the answer for drab winter gardens, says Hannah Stephenson.            

As autumn leaves fall and the days continue to get shorter, many gardens are plunged into gloom. One saving grace is berries — from reds and oranges to blacks — they brighten up the often colour-free winter garden, and provide vital food for birds. Many of them stand bold against evergreen leaves, providing an impressive display of contrast.

Rosehips last through winter and berries, or hips, are a must for anyone who wants colour in their garden in the coldest months. And the first place to look is the rose family, some of which produce wonderful hips such as Rosa ‘Scharlachglut’ and Rosa x jacksonii ‘Max Graf’, which both produce a profusion of red hips.