December can sometimes be a quiet month in the garden, but there are more things to sort out than you may realise. With limited daylight as we come to the shortest day of the year, this month’s cold weather can be gorgeous but bitterly cold in equal measure.
Give your garden peace and tranquillity this winter with these tips:
- Group potted plants together in a covered spot in the garden to shield them from the toughest winter weather.
- If some of your rose bushes suffered from blackspot or rust this summer, collect and get rid of any fallen leaves to decrease the chance of infection next year.
- If your strawberry plants are 3 years old or over, order some new strawberry runners to swap them out. Old strawberry plants can harbour diseases and could begin to lose vitality and efficiency.
- If you haven’t previously done so, clean out the greenhouse methodically. Wash the glass, the floor and the staging with horticultural disinfectant to get rid of any overbearing pests and diseases.
- Work some manure into greenhouse borders to set them up for next spring. Leave plenty of space to add compost later on.
- Water plants sparingly to keep them a dry atmosphere as much as possible.
Some brilliant reminders and great ideas for tasks for this quiet time of year. Your use of the word tranquillity is perfect. At this hectic time of year, these calm, slow gardening tasks can be a refuge away from the hustle and bustle. Thanks for sharing!