- Place a heavy layer of mulch over marginally hardy plant crowns and roses.
- Remove snow and ice from evergreens by gently tapping the underside of branches with a broom soon after the snow has fallen, before a few days of freeze and thaw.
- Deadhead pansies regularly to prevent seed formation and promote flower production.
- Prune Roses to get them ready for winter. Cut long canes back halfway to prevent them from whipping in the winter wind and becoming damaged.
- Trim evergreens for holiday decorations.
- Bring the bulbs you are forcing into the sun for holiday bloom.
- Gather bunches of herb stems such as Lavender, Rosemary, and Hyssop, tie with raffia and use in the fireplace as fragrant kindling.
- Provide food and fresh water for birds throughout winter. Place feeders where you can see your fine feathered visitors.
- Place a layer or two of burlap on the ground below your birdfeeder to catch the dropped birdseed, to aid in spring cleanup and to prevent unwanted seed germination.
- Peruse mail-order catalogs. Begin planning spring plantings, noting plants and seeds to be ordered.
- Don’t feed houseplants, but do group them close together to increase humidity.
- Have gardening equipment serviced.
- Enjoy a cleaner and healthier garden throughout the winter. Your annual 1/2” of compost and two inch layer of mulch can be applied now.
Call Designs for Greener Gardens at 410-626-6122 to help you with your December garden needs!
