December

Garden Tasks for December

• Take hardwood cuttings.

• Prune apples, pears and vines.  Also acers and birches as they don't bleed at this time of year.

• Plant bare root shrubs and trees if the ground is still soft.

• Check that everything is the garden is secured against winter storms.  If flooding is a problem in your garden, check that all drains, ditches and culverts are clear.

• If you haven't already, put frost protection fleece or straw around half-hardy plants.   Bring frost sensitive container plants under cover if possible.

• Protect outside taps and hose fittings from frost damage.  Isolate and drain, or if not possible, insulate.

• Protect ponds from frost damage, such as by floating a football or using a pond heater.

• Inspect stored roots (dahlia tubers, bulbs and corms) occasionally for any signs of decay.