December
December Flower Garden
Now’s the time for pruning. Cutting back summer side-shoots to 2 or 3 buds on wisteria. Cutting away diseased or damage growth to climbing roses and tying in any new shoots to their support. Prune acers, birches and vines now if needed, as they will bleed sap if pruning is done any later.
Move containers of shrubs or bedding plants to a sheltered spot, clustering them together helps protect the root systems from suffering from frost damage.
Check climbers are securely attached with plant ties to their support.
Plant up winter containers with hardy cyclamen, ivy, skimmia and evergreen grasses to add colour to your garden. Place them in prominent places beside entrances and well used paths to enjoy their winter display.
Harvest holly with berries for making Christmas garlands and Christmas wreaths, stand them in a bucket of water until you’re ready to use them.
Top Tip
Leave faded flower heads on your hydrangeas until the spring, as they will provide frost protection to the swelling buds further down them stems.
- Check your winter protection structures are securely in place.
- Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding.
- Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops.
- Reduce watering of houseplants.
- Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing.
