What's on Gardenwise

The Garden in December

Fruit trees can be pruned, plots tidied, and frost precautions taken before the Christmas holidays puts a temporary stop to gardening.

The weather in December

Usually there is a little sunshine, and gales and rain common, with fog and frost inevitable. December can be sometimes the coldest month of the year. Cold spells which begin early in the month seldom persist.

Lawns

Dig over areas to be seeded next spring. Clean and overhaul machines and equipment.

Roses

Complete planting, but not if the soil is wet and sticky or there is frost or snow on the surface. If conditions are unsuitable, heel the roses in or keep the in a frost free place. Collect and burn any fallen leaves which show traces of black spot.

Herbaceous plants

Continue tidying beds and borders and digging between plants. Cut back invasive roots of trees and hedges. Replace worn turf beside a bed or border. Order seeds or plants for spring sowing or planting.

Bulbs

Hoe beds of late planted tulips. Examine bowls and pots of bulbs and move them indoors as they are ready. Give bowls and pots a quarter turn each day to ensure even growth.

Water plants and pools

Keep a small area of the pool free from ice to permit toxic gases to escape. Alternatively, cover a small are with a board or rush matting.

Greenhouse

Do not give too much heat while growth is at a low ebb. Give extra attention to plants to be in flower for Christmas. Give some ventilation on sunny days.

Patio gardens

Protect valuable trees and shrubs grown in containers.

Plants to enjoy in December

Hyacinths, Narcissus, Heathers, Hamamelis, Jasminum, Mahonia, Ilex (holly), Pyracantha, Skimmia, Sorbus and Cyclamen.

If you have any gardening questions please send them to gordonsnursery@cynonvalley.co.uk and we will try and answer them for you.