As the chill of December settles in, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by spending time in your garden. Winter may slow down growth, but it’s the perfect time for some essential tasks that will keep your garden thriving through the colder months and set you up for a successful spring. Here are ten important jobs to tackle in your garden this December.
1. Windproofing Your Garden
Winter winds can wreak havoc on vulnerable plants and structures. Ensure crop covers are securely fastened, using heavier weights like bricks to keep them in place during gales. Tall vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts and sprouting broccoli, should be tied to supports to prevent wind damage. Remove any dead, yellowing leaves to lighten the load. Stow away any loose items like pots and garden furniture to avoid them becoming projectiles in storms.
2. Clean Plant Pots
Take this opportunity to clean your plant pots. Washing and scrubbing pots with dish soap removes pests and diseases that could overwinter in the grime. Once clean, stack them by size for easy access in spring. It’s also a good time to wipe down and store bamboo canes and supports for the next season.
3. Check for Pests
Milder winters can invite pests such as aphids and spider mites, especially under cover. Regularly check for these unwelcome guests and remove any visible pests. A few aphids can be squished by hand, or rely on natural predators like ladybugs if they’re present. Clean greenhouses and cold frames to eliminate overwintering pests and start fresh for the new growing season.
4. Harvest Jerusalem Artichokes
Jerusalem artichokes (or sunchokes) are an excellent winter crop. These nutrient-packed tubers are hardy and can stay in the ground until needed. They make for a warming, savory soup or can be roasted. Be sure to leave some tubers in the soil for next year’s crop. Their tall stems also act as a windbreak, making them a great addition to exposed gardens.
5. Take a Seed Inventory
Winter is the perfect time to review your seed stock. Browse seed catalogs and make a list of what you want to grow next season. Check your existing seeds to avoid over-purchasing. For older seeds, do a germination test by placing a few seeds on damp paper and checking for sprouting. A germination rate over 50% is acceptable.
6. Mulch Perennials
Protect your perennial vegetables like asparagus, rhubarb, and globe artichokes by mulching them with garden compost. This helps nourish the soil and protects the roots from winter’s chill. It’s best to mulch fruit bushes and canes later in the season when frost and birds can help reduce pests.
7. Apply Grease Bands
If winter moths have damaged your fruit trees in the past, apply grease bands around the trunks of your trees. These sticky bands trap female moths attempting to lay eggs, preventing further damage to your crops. Be cautious, as grease bands can trap other insects too, so only use them if you’ve had issues with winter moths before.
8. Feed the Birds
Birds need extra food during the colder months, especially to maintain their energy. Offer fat-rich foods such as suet balls or fat-filled coconut shells, but avoid netting that could harm their feet. Provide fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing, which is crucial for keeping their feathers in top condition for warmth.
9. Watering with Care
In winter, plants require less water, and overwatering can lead to rot. Check the moisture levels of your indoor plants and containers by lifting them to gauge their weight. In greenhouses, monitor the soil’s moisture and only water when it’s dry. Reduce the risk of mold by avoiding wetting the leaves, and ensure good airflow by opening doors or windows when possible.
10. Grow Bean Sprouts Indoors
If you miss fresh veggies during the winter months, grow mung bean sprouts indoors. They’re quick and easy to cultivate. Soak the seeds overnight, drain them, then place them in a jar with muslin over the top. Rinse and drain them twice a day, and within five days, you’ll have fresh sprouts ready to enjoy. They can be stored in the fridge for a few days for added convenience.
By completing these tasks in December, you’ll be winter-proofing your garden and preparing it for the growing season ahead. Whether it’s securing your plants, cleaning your tools, or indulging in a little seed catalog browsing, this season is the perfect time to set your garden up for success.