As December rolls in, the shorter days and colder nights remind us that winter has firmly arrived. Now is the perfect season to set the stage for thriving landscapes in the months ahead. Whether you’re designing a private garden or managing large-scale landscaping projects, December offers opportunities to protect, prepare and enhance. Here’s your essential guide to key gardening and landscaping jobs this month.
- Protect Plants from Frost
Frost can be a silent destroyer, damaging plants overnight. Cover tender plants and consider moving potted plants to sheltered locations or closer to walls.
Tip: Use mulch around the base of frost-sensitive plants to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.
- Prune Deciduous Trees and Shrubs
We recommend having an understanding of each plants growth pattern to know when and how to prune effectively. Pruning the right plants in winter helps to shape and encourage healthy growth.
- Prepare Soil for Spring Planting
Improve soil quality by:
- Removing weeds and debris
- Adding well-rotted manure or compost to enrich nutrients
- Turn the soil to improved drainage and aeration, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging.
- Plant Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs
December is prime time for planting bare-root trees and shrubs. When planting, dig generous holes, loosen the soil and ensure roots are well spread. Finish with a layer of mulch to lock in moisture and protect against frost.
- Mulch Perennial Beds
Mulching is an invaluable task for maintaining vibrant perennial beds. A thick layer of organic mulch such as bark provides insulation, prevents weed growth and enhances soil fertility.
6. Clear debris
Debris like fallen leaves on can suffocate the lawn and create a breeding ground for pest and disease. Removing leaves, rot and extra materials will help aerate the lawn.
7. Cut grass shorter
Usually when the temperature consistently sits at 10 degrees Celsius, it’s time for the last mow of the season. Lawns should be cut between 2-2.5 inches to protect new growth and minimise pests. We don’t advise mowing the grass if the ground is very soft, wet or frozen.
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