Some Winter season reminders Greenhouse
Check that the panes of glass in your greenhouse are secure and - if you use them - that your heaters are working properly. Lightly water any over-wintering tender plants. Frost
Here on the north Wales coast, we do not suffer very much from frosts but it may be a wise precaution to put a small ball into your pond to prevent a build-up of gasses - if the pond is likely to freeze over. Birds will have come to rely on the water source so try to keep some of the water surface open. Exposed pipe work and taps could be lagged. Empty and store watering equipment. Plants & Crops
Harvest during the month: Leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops, also ensure that your remaining crops are firmly supported to stop wind-rock damage. Stored Produce: Check any stores for damage, rot or moulds and take precautions against mice. Check Dahlia and other stored tubers for rot. Flower Garden: Check your Daffodil and Tulip beds and pots - keep weed free. Start to reduce the watering of your indoor houseplants. Cuttings and Pruning: You can still take hardwood cuttings. Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas as this avoids any bleeding. You can also prune apple and pear trees that are in the open but not those growing against walls and fences. Plant: You can still plant deciduous trees, bushes and shrubs, including roses. Treatments: Dormant apples, pears, plums, cherries, peaches, currants, gooseberries which are dormant can be given a winter wash to help control some pests next year but remember - if buds have begun to break it is too late! Your Lawn in December
Complete any remaining leaves. Clean and overhaul mowers and strimmers, clean, oil and sharpen other tools where necessary. Dig over any areas that you want to seed in the spring. Tools
Clean, sharpen and oil your garden tools, check and repair any broken or damaged handles. Have your mower serviced and the cutting blades sharpened or replaced. General
Save money: Keep a look out for discounted supplies at your Garden Centre - they often discount sprays, fertilisers and the like in the “off” season. Ground Preparation: Clean and tidy up your borders and beds and if you have not already done so, complete the digging. Winter digging exposes soil pests to the birds and any frost will help to improve soil structure. ...and, the gardeners favourite indoor pastime: Start hunting through your garden catalogues and plan the year’s flower displays and vegetable crops. Courtesy of Barneys Fencing & Landscape Services at www.barneyslandscapes.co.uk | 
