In the winter months many of us will spend a lot less time outdoors.

Colder, wetter weather and shorter daylight hours make gardening less appealing.

Moreover, many plants struggle to survive outside during the UK winter.

But this needn’t stop you from making additions to your garden, one expert has said.

Speaking exclusively with Express.co.uk, Samantha Richards – garden gazebo expert at Gazeboshop – revealed a certain plant that can actually “thrive” in cooler weather.

“In December, most people will be thinking of protecting their garden flowers from the freezing temperatures, not planting them,” she said.

“However, winter doesn’t mean you need to turn your back on the garden.

“In fact, there are some shrubs that can be planted in the colder months that thrive – just as long as the soil isn’t frozen yet.”

She therefore recommended planting violas.

“If you are looking for plants with a long flowering season, opt for violas, which are primarily cool-season bloomers,” Samantha explained.

“They most commonly flower in the spring or autumn and thrive in shady gardens, making them ideal to fill out space in the cooler months.

“Ensure you snip off the older flower heads once they have faded, if you want your violas to flower through winter.

“It’s also worth remembering that violas still need watering even in the colder months, as they require moist soil to flourish.

“Hanging violas in baskets is a great option to add beauty to your home, or why not try planting your violas near the house in a flowerbed to add a splash of much-needed colour this winter?”

Samantha shared some more ideas on what to grow in the winter.

She added: “Reaching around three feet in height and width, daphne is a shrub that doesn’t require frequent watering or pruning.

“It simply needs a spot where the roots are shaded from the sun.

“For maximum potential, consider planting your daphne in a slightly elevated bed to help it grow faster.

“Daphne shrubs can be planted at any time of the year and are hardy down to temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius – as a result, they are sure to be a success this December.”

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) describes daphnes as having “richly fragrant flowers”.

Depending on the variety they choose, they will bloom pink, white or yellow flowers.