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Winter frost
As we approach the shortest day of the year in December you will need work to keep you warm outside, such as digging and tree pruning. Check your winter protection and if you have a greenhouse make sure the heater is working. Hopefully there are not too many jobs left to do this year so you will have time for some fireside garden planning.
Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place
Check that greenhouse heaters are working
Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing
Prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls)
Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding
Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops
Deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted and transplanted
Take hardwood cuttings
Keep mice away from stored produce
Reduce watering of houseplants
Things to do in the garden this month
Flowers
Trees and shrubs
Lawns
Ponds
Structures
Greenhouse, conservatory and houseplants
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.
