December
In The Flower Garden This December
Prune climbing roses now, removing diseased or damaged growth and tying in any new shoots to their support. Prune older flowered side shoots back by two thirds of their length.
Move conatiners of shrubs or bedding planters to sheltered spots, clustering them together helps protect the root systems from frost damage.
Prune your Japanese maple trees if need, as they will bleed sap if pruning is done any later.
Plant deciduous, climing honeysuckle now, but make sure to avoid any frozen or waterlogged ground.
Keep checking over stored dahlia tubers, keeping an eye out for rot.
Harvest holly with berries for making Christmas garlands and wreaths. Stand the berry covered twigs in a bucket of water until you’re ready to use them.
Dig over empty borders and prepare your soil for next year’s planting.
Top Tip:
Leave the faded flower heads on your hydranges until spring, as they provide frost protection to the swelling buds futher down the stem.
This Month's Key Tips
- Check your winter protection structures are securely in place.
- Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoud bleeding.
- Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, spruts and remaining crops.
- Reduce watering of houseplants.
- Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing.
