What to do in your garden in December
What to do in your garden in December
Many of us plan our Spring/Summer gardens during the Winter months. There is nothing more enjoyable than spending time outside on a crisp winters day.
As we approach the shortest day of the year in December you will need work to keep you warm outside, such as digging and tree pruning. Check your winter protection and if you have a greenhouse make sure the heater is working. A few minutes spent in the garden in December can lighten the work load for next year and give you a chance to escape from the festive rush.
- Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place
- Check that greenhouse heaters are working
- Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing
- Prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls)
- Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding
- Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops
- Deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted and transplanted
- Take hardwood cuttings
- Keep mice away from stored produce
- Reduce watering of houseplants
Sources: www.rhs.org.uk / www.houseandgarden.co.uk