Garden Tasks for December
December is here, and it's time to give your garden some special care to make it shine during this festive season. It is a blissful time in the garden, with plenty of tasks to keep you busy. Here are some garden tasks to complete in the month of December:
General Maintenance
Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Be sure to adjust your watering schedule according to the weather conditions in your area. Water in the early morning or late evening to minimise evaporation.
Consider simplifying your watering, with irrigation systems, a drip hose, the use of automatic timers or simply moving a sprinkler around garden beds with a timer on your phone.
Increase the frequency of your indoor plant watering schedule.
Keep an eye out for pests and take appropriate action. Common pests include rust, mildew, black spot, caterpillars and thrips on roses.
Mulch garden beds to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilise plants with a slow-release fertiliser to encourage healthy growth.
Remove any dead plants or debris to avoid harbouring pests and diseases.
Planting
Sow seeds for summer crops such as beans, corn, and zucchini.
Plant herbs such as basil, chives, and oregano.
Stake tomatoes and remove side shoots from the leaf joins to encourage more fruiting.
Plant flowering annuals such as petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.
Harvesting
Harvest any remaining winter crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
Harvest celery, lettuce, snow pea, spring onion, squash, and strawberries.
Harvest herbs as needed for cooking or drying.
Deadhead and fertilise flowering plants to encourage new blooms.
Lawn Care
Mow the lawn regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Avoid mowing too short. Be mindful of the expected temperature for a few days following mowing.
Aerate and fertilise the lawn to promote healthy growth.
Tree and Shrub Care
Prune deciduous trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth.
Fertilise trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth.
Check for signs of disease or pests and take appropriate action.
Miscellaneous Tasks
Find yourself a nice garden hat, and make sure you have got sunscreen on hand.
Consider decorating with some festive garden lighting.
Clean and maintain garden tools and equipment so they are fresh heading into a new year. Perhaps add some items to your wish list!
Check irrigation systems and adjust as needed.
Start planning your garden for next year and order any necessary seeds or plants.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of your garden. Sit back, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the tranquility that your garden brings. It's the perfect place to unwind and find solace during this busy time.