As the year winds down and winter takes hold, gardening in December in the UK can be a quieter but still rewarding activity. The key to successful gardening during this time is preparation, protection, and planning. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your garden in December.
1. Prepare for Frosty Mornings
Frost and cold snaps are common in December, so protecting plants is essential. Use fleece or cloches to cover tender plants. For potted plants, consider moving them closer to the house or into a greenhouse to shield them from extreme cold.
Tip:
Place a layer of mulch around the base of shrubs and perennials to insulate the roots and retain moisture.
2. Prune and Tidy
December is an excellent time to prune deciduous trees, shrubs, and hedges while they are dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote healthy growth in spring. It's also a good time to clear away fallen leaves and debris to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden.
Tasks to Tackle:
Prune apple and pear trees.
Cut back overgrown hedges.
Remove dead foliage from herbaceous plants.
3. Planting in Winter
Although the growing season is slow, December is perfect for planting bare-root trees, shrubs, and roses. Ensure the ground is not waterlogged or frozen before planting.
Winter Bulbs:
Check on bulbs planted earlier in autumn. Make sure they’re not waterlogged.
Plant amaryllis indoors for a spectacular indoor display in late winter.
4. Care for Wildlife
Gardens provide vital resources for wildlife in winter. Help birds and small mammals by putting out food and ensuring water sources remain unfrozen.
Wildlife Tips:
Install bird feeders and stock them with high-energy seeds and fat balls.
Create log piles or leave some garden corners undisturbed to shelter insects and hedgehogs.
Use a shallow dish with fresh water and check it regularly.
5. Greenhouse and Indoor Care
If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse, now is the time to make the most of it. Keep it tidy, ventilated, and free of pests. Indoors, check houseplants for signs of overwatering or pest infestations, as they’re more vulnerable during the darker months.
Key Tasks:
Clean greenhouse glass to maximize light.
Use bubble wrap insulation to retain heat in the greenhouse.
Rotate houseplants for even light exposure.
6. Plan for the Year Ahead
December is ideal for planning your gardening projects for the coming year. Take time to:
Reflect on what worked well in your garden this year.
Order seeds, bulbs, and plants for spring.
Sketch out planting designs and crop rotations.
Inspiration:
Research companion planting techniques to optimize your vegetable garden.
Explore new plant varieties that thrive in the UK climate.
If you are thinking of making some changes to your garden next year now is the time to contact us so we can start to get a design and plan together so your garden is ready to be enjoyed when spring and summer come along!
7. Festive Gardening
Bring a touch of the garden indoors for the festive season. Use evergreen foliage like holly, ivy, and pine to create wreaths, garlands, or table centerpieces. Adding natural elements from your garden can make your home feel even more festive.
Quick Craft Idea:
Gather pinecones, spray them with a touch of gold or silver paint, and use them as decorations.
Gardening in December may be quieter, but it’s a time of preparation and care that sets the stage for a vibrant garden in spring. Whether you're protecting your plants, feeding wildlife, or planning for the future, there’s always something to do in the garden. So, wrap up warm, grab your gloves, and enjoy the crisp air while tending to your winter garden.
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