How: Place seeds into seed trays or plugs filled with compost. Keep them in a warm place, such as a heated greenhouse or indoors, to encourage germination.

Planting tulip bulbs

Task: Continue planting tulip bulbs.

Why: Planting tulips now, particularly early in the month, ensures a vibrant display in early to mid-spring.

How: Plant bulbs at a depth of three times their height in well-drained soil, spacing them about 10-15cm apart.

Pond maintenance

Task: Clear out fallen leaves from ponds.

Why: Too many decomposing leaves can degrade water quality and potentially harm aquatic life.

How: Use a net or skimmer to gently remove leaves and other debris, such as algae, from the water surface.

Tool and pot cleaning

Task: Clean and sharpen garden tools.

Why: Proper maintenance prevents rust and prolongs the life of your tools.

How: Wash tools with soapy water, dry them thoroughly, and sharpen blades. Oil any moving parts and store tools in a dry place. Clean and store plastic pots for reuse.

Greenhouse maintenance

Task: Clean your greenhouse or potting shed.

Why: A clean greenhouse reduces the risk of pests and diseases and prepares the space for spring.

How: Remove any plant debris, wash windows and surfaces with a disinfectant, and organise tools and supplies.

Watering plants

Task: Water plants sparingly.

Why: Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in colder weather when plants are dormant.

How: Only water when the soil is dry, focusing on plants that are under cover or indoors.

Caring for poinsettias

Task: Care for Poinsettias.

Why: Poinsettias are popular during Christmas but are sensitive to cold.

How: Keep them in a semi-shaded spot indoors and water only when the soil feels dry. Avoid draughts and cold temperatures.

Lawn care

Task: Repair damaged lawn patches.

Why: December offers a last chance to repair lawns before the deep freeze.

How: Patch damaged areas with new turf, ensuring the ground isn't too wet or frosty. Press the turf down firmly and water lightly if needed.

Additional December gardening tasks

Protecting delicate plants

Task: Protect delicate plants from frost.

Why: Frost can damage tender plants.

How: Use horticultural fleece, cloches, or move potted plants indoors to protect from cold snaps.

Mulching beds and borders

Task: Mulch beds and borders.

Why: Mulching helps insulate plant roots and suppress weeds.

How: Apply a layer of compost, straw, or bark chips around plants, keeping mulch away from stems.

Preparing for bird visitors

Task: Set up bird feeders and water sources.

Why: Providing food and water helps birds survive the winter.

How: Fill feeders with high-energy foods like sunflower seeds and suet. Ensure water sources are not frozen over.

Pruning fruit trees

Task: Prune fruit trees.

Why: Winter pruning helps shape trees and remove dead or diseased wood.

How: Prune on a dry day to avoid spreading disease. Cut back to healthy buds and remove crossing branches.

Composting green waste

Task: Add green waste to your compost.

Why: Composting garden waste recycles nutrients back into the earth.

How: Add fallen leaves, cuttings, and vegetable peelings to your compost bin. Turn regularly to aerate and speed up decomposition.

Caring for rhubarb

Task: Look after your rhubarb.

Why: Proper care in winter ensures a healthy crop in the following season.

How: Remove dead leaves and compost them. Although you can’t eat rhubarb leaves, they are perfectly safe in compost. Mulch around the crown to protect against frost. Remove flower heads to encourage robust growth.

These tasks will hopefully help your garden thrive through the winter and be well-prepared for the coming spring. Happy gardening!