The list of garden chores is getting shorter, just like the days. Nature takes a pause, and we too can enjoy a quieter time in the garden. However, if you still want to enjoy the fresh air, whether bundled up against the cold or not, you can fortunately tackle a few garden chores this month. We're happy to share them in this article.
Garden chores for the month of December
Garden paths can become dangerously slippery due to cold and wet days. Remove leaves so they can't freeze. Sprinkle sand and brush over it to prevent slipperiness.
Do you have frost-sensitive plants in the garden? Shelter them under a canopy or in the greenhouse. A fleece or frost cloth can also help during the first winter chill. Be careful with watering to prevent root rot.
The annuals you sowed in the fall can certainly withstand a bit of rough weather. However, during severe frost, it's best to give them some extra protection to avoid frost damage.
Flower bulbs can still be planted until the end of December. They need a cold snap to bloom well. So feel free to plant some more bulbs in the garden, or brighten up your terrace and pots with a bulb lasagna. Don't forget to finish off the pots with pansies for a lovely splash of color during the dark months.
Help garden animals through the cold winter months. Feed garden birds, leave messy corners as they are, and don't bring out the leaf blower. Piles of leaves are the perfect hiding spots for insects and other small creatures. Don't forget fresh drinking water either.
December is a great month to add trees, shrubs, and plants to your garden. Even with light frost, you can still plant; the ground is just a bit harder. Digging a hole might be more challenging, but it certainly won't harm the plant.
Winter vegetables can be harvested. Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, kale, leeks, lamb's lettuce, kohlrabi, and celeriac are ready for picking. Did you know that some vegetables actually taste better after a frost? Brussels sprouts, for instance, become much sweeter once they've been touched by frost. The cold transforms the starch in the vegetable into natural sugars.
Create a vegetable or cutting garden plan
At the moment, we can do some things in the garden, but the big garden tasks are on hold. It's the perfect time to reflect. What went well in the garden? Which parts of the garden did you like less? By asking a few targeted questions, your garden can look much better.
What went really well or smoothly in the garden? Can you extend that to other parts of the garden?
What didn't go so well? How could you address that? Can certain shrubs or parts of the garden be replaced or moved?
What would you really love to have in the garden? Can you add it somewhere?
Was there something in bloom every season, or were there times when there was little to nothing happening? If there are certain periods that are less interesting, you can see what blooms during that time and possibly add it to your garden. This way, you ensure an extended bloom arc.
In the vegetable garden, you can also make a plan during the winter period. What crops are favorites? How much would you like to harvest per crop? Now is the ideal time to look around and see which varieties you'd like to add to your collection. The same goes for the cutting garden. Were there varieties that absolutely thrived or didn't do well in the garden? Were there certain types you missed? Look to supplement your varieties or find alternatives.
Learn more through our videos
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In this video, Angelo teaches you how to create a bulb lasagna. By adding different bulbs to the pot, you have blooms at various times. This way, you can enjoy the bulbs for longer.
Put down the pruner and give your tools a refresh
Don't forget the autumn cleanup in the garden. Leave the leaves and definitely don't cut back perennials. The seed heads and branches serve as a food source for birds and also as a shelter for insects. An added bonus is that your garden looks stunning when it freezes. The structural plants give your garden body and the delicate layer of frost adds an extra charming effect.
If there's no pruning to be done, it's the perfect time to give your garden tools a refresh. Remove soil and dirt from pruners, spades, and other surfaces. Clean everything thoroughly so you can inspect the tools properly. Does the pruner need a sharpening? Then this is the ideal moment. Ensure everything is sharp and cuts smoothly so you can get to work effortlessly in the coming season. Finally, use an oil to give your tools a protective layer. This way, rust doesn't stand a chance.
