Gardening Tips for December
It’s the beginning of November as I write and it is actually feeling quite cold and wintry.
Make sure that your plants are well staked and ties are secure in case of more gales. Mulch any tender plants in the border, plants like fuchsias, penstemons and any dahlias left in the ground. If we get heavy snow, brush it off shrubs and plants as it could break stems. If you have a greenhouse, check that the heater is working if you have one, or have fl eece or newspaper on standby to protect plants and cuttings. Let’s hope we don’t get too much cold weather (this is where I show my age).
Acers, birches and vines should be pruned if necessary before Christmas to avoid ‘bleeding’. Deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted. Continue to tidy borders and compost any trimmings.
Not as much to do on the vegetable plot apart from harvesting the parsnips and sprouts, which are at their best after a frost. You can however plant shallots and garlic in this area where it is milder. If you have access to well-rotted manure, spread it around to enrich the soil next year.
Reduce watering on houseplants now. More plants are killed by overwatering than anything else. With central heating and fi res now in use, be careful about where you place your houseplants. Cyclamen plants prefer a cooler spot whilst poinsettias prefer some warmth. Orchids like phalaenopsis prefer some warmth and bright light, but not direct sun.
With Christmas getting nearer every day, think about cutting holly with berries early before the birds get them. If you store it in a bucket of water
outside it should keep well until you need it for decorating. If you are looking for presents, why not a planted pot with an evergreen centre and pansies for colour. It will keep going for several months and supply instant trouble free colour. For new gardeners, a basic ‘How to do it’ gardening book will make a nice present and for those who are more experienced the range is endless. Look at the RHS website for books on all aspects of gardening. Tools also make a good present. Feeders, birdbaths and nesting boxes will be a present for wild birds as well. Don’t forget to keep the feeders and baths fi lled.
One last thought, if your gardening tools need sharpening or mowers need servicing, now is a good time to do it.
Merry Christmas everyone, and look forward to lots of gardening next year.
Denise Hill Broadstone in Bloom Mick Bushaway Landscaping Services
Patios, Paved circles, Crazy paving, Rockeries, Shingle, Slate, Turfing, Fencing, Decking & Drainage
Tel: 01202 602808 - Mobile: 07957 148786
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