It's December. Despite December being one of the coldest months of the year, it offers opportunities for enjoyable tasks in the garden. Instead of neglecting your green haven, seize this month to prepare your garden for winter, ensuring it comes to life again at the first signs of spring. Here are 15 gardening tips for December to guide you in caring for your garden during the last month of the year.
15 gardening tips for December
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Prune trees and shrubs: Trimming overhanging branches and dead parts of trees and shrubs is not just a tidying activity but also promotes healthy growth in the upcoming spring. Take the time to prune carefully, preparing your plants for a renewed growth period.
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Protect sensitive plants: Safeguarding frost-sensitive plants is crucial to ensure they survive the winter. Use cloths or special covers to wrap your precious plants, shielding them from the cold winter air.
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Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around your plants does more than protect against frost; it also helps reduce moisture loss. Mulching is a simple yet effective way to maintain your plants' health during the winter months.
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Plant bulbs: December is the perfect time to plant flower bulbs such as tulips and daffodils. These flowers will brighten and colour your garden in the spring. Dig the holes to the correct depth and let your garden anticipate the beautiful spectacle of blooming bulbs.
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Check for weeds: While most plants are at rest, weeds take advantage of this opportunity to spread. Prevent issues in the spring by removing weeds now. A clean garden in December means less work in the spring.
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Feed the birds: Birds may struggle to find food during the winter months. Place bird feed and provide fresh water to attract these feathered friends to your garden. Enjoy the spectacle of colourful birds visiting your garden.
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Winterize the pond: A pond is a valuable element in the garden but requires special attention in December. Clean the pond thoroughly and cover it to prevent leaves and other debris from entering the water and freezing.
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Composting: Take the time to rotate compost piles and add autumn leaves. This process will result in rich, nutritious compost that you can use in the spring to feed your plants.
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Protect terracotta pots: Terracotta pots are susceptible to breakage when filled with water and frozen. Store empty terracotta pots indoors or protect them with cloths to prevent damage.
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Check for diseases: Give your plants a healthy start for the next season by inspecting them for signs of diseases. Treat them if necessary to minimize issues during the winter.
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Harvest winter vegetables: If you have a vegetable garden, December is a suitable time to harvest winter vegetables, such as kale and winter purslane. These vegetables thrive well in cooler temperatures and provide a tasty addition to your kitchen.
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Protect plants from wind: Vulnerable plants need protection from cold winds. Place natural windbreaks around these plants to shield them from harsh weather conditions.
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Indoor gardening: Give your green thumbs a creative outlet by growing seedlings indoors. Plant these seedlings outdoors once spring arrives, giving you a head start on the growing season.
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Maintain garden tools: Garden tools need loving care. Clean and maintain your tools so they are ready for the upcoming season. Sharp blades and well-functioning tools make your work in the garden more efficient.
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Plan for spring: December is the ideal time to make plans for the upcoming spring. Consider new plants, garden projects, or landscape improvements you want to implement. Planning ahead ensures you are well-prepared when temperatures begin to rise.
By following these gardening tips, you are well on your way to nurturing and preparing your garden for a bountiful spring. Give your green oasis the attention it deserves in December, and you will reap the rewards when nature awakens again. Happy gardening!
