Introduction: Master the Art of December Gardening
Puzzled about what to do in the garden in December? Look no further. The final month of the year brings about a unique set of gardening tasks, which if addressed properly, can ensure a vibrant and flourishing garden as we enter the new year. Planning and organising your gardening chores in December can lead you to perfect your winter garden preparation strategy. So, let's delve in and explore the top December gardening tasks that you can employ during these colder months.
Planning and Preparing: Setting the Stage for your Winter Garden
The beginning of December is an ideal time for garden planning and preparation. Despite the cold weather, there are several tasks you can perform. Start with deciding the type and number of plants you wish to grow in the coming months. This is the time when most online seed stores start selling their new crop of seeds. So, make a detailed list of all the plants you desire and begin your search.
In the meantime, clean your greenhouse and potting sheds. Wash and disinfect them properly to prevent any latent diseases from spreading to your new plants. Similarly, clean your garden tools too, as maintaining them can prolong their life.
Planting and Pruning: Fostering Your Garden Blooms
Even in the frosty month of December, there is planting to do. It is the perfect time to plant bare root roses and trees as the soil is usually still warm. This provides a good ground for roots to settle. Besides, you should also plant some winter veggies, like garlic and onions, which are hardy against the cold weather conditions.
Likewise, December is also the prime time for pruning. It’s your time to step up and cut back on deciduous trees and shrubs. However, avoid heavy pruning of vulnerable trees and bushes, as severe weather can harm newly pruned plants.
Protection and Maintenance: Safeguarding Your Hibernating Garden
Perhaps the most critical aspect of December gardening is protecting your outdoor space from the harsh weather. Place your vulnerable pots and containers inside or in a sheltered spot. Cover the roots of fragile shrubberies with straw or a good layer of compost.
Ensure that your birdfeeders are full, as winter months can be rough on our feathery friends. Brush off excess snow from your greenhouse and cold frames to allow light to filter through. Furthermore, ventilate your greenhouse on warmer days to inhibit the development of mould or fungus.
Utilising Nature’s Gifts: Composting and Recycling
December is also the optimal time to make your compost. Utilise nature’s gifts fallen from your trees, such as leaves for creating leaf mould. You can also add vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, and eggshells. However, avoid adding any diseased plants or weeds to your compost to safeguard your garden’s health.
Post Christmas, recycle your Christmas tree by shredding it using a garden shredder and use these for your garden paths or to create acidic mulch for acid-loving plants.
Conclusion: Embrace December Gardening for a Flourishing Spring
While many people consider December a dull gardening month, it's quite the contrary due to the multitude of tasks you can undertake. Try your hand at planning, preparing, protecting, and maintaining your garden to ensure a flourishing garden this winter, leading to a successful spring bloom. So, embrace the charm of December gardening and perfect your winter garden preparation strategy. With the right tasks in order, your garden will not only survive but thrive, spreading joy well beyond the festive season.