Still, I do. And when I do, I am careful not to cut back all the canes to the same length. Cutting the stems to different heights produces berries at various levels up and down the shrubs ...

The berries are eaten by more than 40 songbird species and deer, raccoons, Virginia opossums, armadillos and numerous small rodents. The leaves are also a common food for white-tailed deer.

The winter is a time of scarcity for animals: less food, less shelter, less greenery. But there are things you can do to your yard in moments that will make a huge difference to visiting wildlife.

Possumhaw holly (Ilex decidua) is a deciduous, 15- to 20-foot multitrunk native that displays orange-to-red berries on bare stems in winter. Birds love it. Article continues below this ad ...

Many birds turn to calorie-packed berries in autumn for an energy boost as they prepare for winter. Nutrient-rich natives provide the best fuel.

Beautyberry is not the only garden-worthy shrub that has eye-catching fall or winter berries. If you feel your yard needs more autumn oomph, consider these: Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia).

Berries that bring new color and energy to the winter landscape are a great way to break up that monotone of greens and browns that often predominate in our Pacific Northwest gardens. And whether ...

The berries can stain concrete, however, so don't plant it over walks, unless you like polka dots. This small tree can be maintained at about 15 feet in height with equal spread.