Other Jobs Around The Garden This December

Protect Plants from Frost and Cold

• Mulch Around Perennials: Add a layer of mulch around perennials, shrubs, and trees to insulate their roots from extreme temperatures. Mulching helps prevent freezing and thawing cycles that can damage plant roots.
• Cover Tender Plants: If you have any frost-sensitive plants that haven’t been moved indoors, use fleece, burlap, or frost blankets to protect them from freezing temperatures.
• Wrap Young Trees: Wrap the trunks of young or thin-barked trees to protect them from frost cracks, sunscald, or damage from animals like deer and rodents.

Care for the Lawn

• Rake Leaves and Debris: Clear leaves and twigs from your lawn to prevent them from smothering the grass and causing mold or fungus growth.
• Avoid Walking on Frosted Grass: If the grass is frosted or frozen, avoid walking on it, as it can damage the blades and compact the soil.
• Winterise Lawn Equipment: Take time to clean, sharpen, and store your lawnmower and other garden equipment for the winter months.

Prepare Outdoor Containers

• Empty and Clean Containers: If you’ve had summer plants in containers, empty them out and clean the pots to prevent diseases and pests from overwintering in the soil. You can store the empty pots in a sheltered place or use them to pot up winter plants like evergreens or winter pansies.
• Move Pots Indoors: If you have any potted plants that are sensitive to frost, bring them indoors or into a greenhouse for protection.

Check and Maintain Garden Structures

• Inspect Fencing and Gates: Check the garden’s fences and gates for any damage or areas that may need reinforcing. Winter storms can cause structural damage, so it’s best to repair issues now before they worsen.
• Support for Climbing Plants: If you have climbing plants, such as roses, clematis, or ivy, check their supports and ties. Ensure they are secure and not damaged by wind or snow.
• Repair Greenhouses or Sheds: Check the greenhouse, sheds, and other structures for leaks or damage from the elements. Winter weather can weaken joints or panels, so now is the time to make necessary repairs.

Take Care of Garden Tools

• Sharpen and Clean Tools: Use this quieter time to clean, sharpen, and maintain your garden tools. Sharpen the edges of spades, shears, hoes, and pruners, and oil any moving parts to keep them in good condition for the next growing season.
• Store Tools Properly: Store your tools in a dry place to prevent rusting. If you have wooden-handled tools, sand and oil them to prevent cracking and splintering.

Bird and Wildlife Care

• Provide Food and Water for Wildlife: Help local wildlife by providing bird feeders filled with seeds, suet, or nuts. Keep bird baths clean and free from ice.
• Create Shelter: Consider adding a birdhouse or creating shelter for wildlife with piles of leaves, branches, or logs. This provides a safe haven for animals during harsh winter months.

By taking care of these tasks in December, you’ll be setting your garden up for success in the coming months. Whether it’s protecting plants from the cold, planning for spring planting, or keeping up with general maintenance, December is a great time to prepare for a lush and productive garden when the growing season begins again.