December jobs in the garden

Written by Daily Fix - Published 01-Dec-2019, last updated 21-Jun-2024

So it's here. The last month of the calendar year. The shortest day (21st December) will soon be upon us and we can try to convince ourselves that the worst of the Winter is over, when in fact there's still a couple of months of it ahead of us.

So wrap up warm, and get out into the garden when the weather, and daylight allows.

Check, repair, prepare

December is a good month for checking, repairing and preparing. If you have outside taps, make sure they are insulated. If you have plants in the greenhouse which rely on an element of warms them make sure your greenhouse heater is in good working order.

Show your pond some love

If you are fortunate to have a beautiful garden pond, there is a simple trick that could help maintain its charm during the colder months. By floating one or even two tennis balls on the water's surface, you might be able to prevent it from freezing over completely. As winter sets in, ponds can quickly become ice-capped, causing potential harm to the delicate ecosystem beneath. However, the tennis ball method helps create a small area of movement within the water, disturbing the formation of ice crystals and allowing some oxygen to reach the aquatic life below.

A frozen pond not only compromises the visual appeal of your garden oasis but also threatens the survival of plants and animals dwelling within it. Employing this technique acts as an act of love towards your pond as well as its inhabitants. Additionally, opting for tennis balls is a cost-effective solution compared to other electric heating options available on the market.

There's still harvesting to be done

In the month of December, despite the advancing winter, there are still plentiful opportunities for harvesting if you have carefully strategised your garden. A variety of vegetables can be harvested during this time, including parsnips, leeks, winter cabbage, and potentially even lingering carrots in the ground.

Parsnips, a root vegetable known for its sweet and nutty flavor, tend to thrive in chilly weather. The colder temperatures enhance their taste and texture. By waiting until December to harvest them, you can enjoy their full potential.

Leeks, with their subtle onion-like flavor, also reach their peak maturity around this time. These frost-tolerant plants continue to grow well into late fall and early winter. Their white bulbs provide a rich addition to hearty soups or savory stews during the holiday season.

Carrots may still be found in the ground throughout December if you've implemented proper storage techniques such as mulching or utilizing protective coverings. With their vibrant colors and crunchy texture, they make a delightful addition to roasts or can be grated for vibrant carrot cakes.

By capitalising on these available crops in December, you can continue to savor fresh homegrown flavors while embracing the spirit of the season. Whether roasted with aromatic herbs or incorporated into hearty dishes that warm both body and soul, these winter treasures are a testament to successful planning and cultivation methods within your garden.

Take willow cuttings

December is a good time to take willow cuttings. Willow is easy to propagate and if you're looking to increase your stock of willow then now is a great time. Find out more in our guide to how to propagate willow.

And it's not to late to plant

While most people associate planting with warmer months, there is still an opportunity to plant trees and shrubs as long as the ground hasn't frozen solid. Despite the cooling temperatures, many deciduous plants can tolerate being transplanted during this time. In fact, certain species even prefer being planted in winter due to less stress from heat and sun exposure. However, it's crucial to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged or overly saturated before commencing any planting activities. Adequate drainage and a well-prepared hole are essential for successful transplantation. Watch out for any frost that may occur and protect newly planted specimens with mulch or covers if needed.

With careful planning and preparations, you can make December a delightful month of gardening joy.

Happy December!