Leading botanist James Wong reveals the plants to protect your home during the colder months, a list of shrubs, climbers, hedges and flowers that can reduce flood risks, tackle damp and even keep houses warm.

James Wong explains that ”a growing body of scientific research has demonstrated that garden plants can work in a host of surprising ways to shield homes against winter weather damage. Think of them as ingenious building materials that aren’t just eco friendly and affordable, but grow ever more effective (and more beautiful!) with each passing year - living protection for your property!”

Evergreen climbers: The glossy, evergreen leaves of climbers like Ivy (Hedera helix ) create a thick barrier of foliage which shield the walls they are growing on from both summer heat and winter cold and rain. Ivy has been consistently shown by scientific trials to actively protect plaster and brickwork by buffering the effects of adverse weather, as long as these are in good condition at the time of planting. Just remember to cut it back if it is at risk of growing into guttering or roof spaces. Always be cautious when undertaking any maintenance task that you aren’t familiar with, seek professional help where needed.

Protective shrubs: Shrubs like Euonymus ('Silver Queen') can be used in exactly the same way as climbers to create a living layer of insulation. Not only can they help prevent pipe damage from freezing solid in harsh winters, but can help disguise unsightly downpipes or taps behind a wall of beautiful silvery foliage. A win-win!

Privet hedges: Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium) is another, evergreen hedge which - when planted around homes as a low hedge - can protect their foundations from freezing and thawing cycles in two different ways. Not only do their thick canopies prevent the cold from reaching the foundations, but their moisture-absorbing roots also prevent water-logging, which work together to prevent cracks and shifting due to freezing soil.

Strong rooted flowers: Plants with strong root systems like Periwinkles (Vinca major) help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion caused by winter storms, even the effect of melting snow and ice. The roots anchor the soil around foundations, driveways, and slopes, preventing runoff and protecting your property from water damage and potential subsidence.

Erosion control plants: The increasing trend to pave over front gardens may increase the risk of flooding in many urban areas. Rainwater runoff is no longer able to soak safely into the soil. Planting a gravel garden using a carpet of groundcover plants that can withstand being walked over like Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum), will create a low-maintenance outdoor space which could help with flood prevention, but will still leave you with a functional driveway. Just one that is far more beautiful than a sea of concrete. A win-win!

Evergreen shrubs: Deep-rooted, evergreen plants like Holly (Ilex aquifolium) can prevent winter rain from pooling near the base of walls and seeping into basements or brickwork, which is especially helpful in older UK homes. This has a drying effect on external walls by absorbing moisture and water from the ground, helping to root out damp issues.

Hardy houseplants: Winter conditions don’t just affect the outside of your home. Central-heated air can be drier than that of the Sahara, which can lead to minor health problems like sore throats and itchy skin. Adding a few hardy houseplants, like peace lilies (Spathiphyllum sp.) can help boost moisture levels as water evaporates from their leaves, helping to improve humidity.

Fragrant climbers: This beauty, Almond-scented clematis (Clematis armandii), blooms with delicate white flowers carrying a sweet almond fragrance, opening in the middle of winter. Its evergreen leaves create an insulating air pocket around your home.

Ground cover plants: Evergreen groundcovers like Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminals ‘Green Carpet’) reduce soil splash onto walls, which can not only be unsightly, but can actually degrade brick or render over time.  These leaves help to shield soil splash. Talk about low-maintenance curb appeal.