GENERAL

When the weather is open continue to dig vacant beds and borders. It is desirable to get as much digging completed before the New Year as possible so that there is plenty of time for the soil to be weathered by the wind, rain and frost.

Garden furniture should be thoroughly cleaned and put away. Some quality hardwood furniture benefits from an annual oiling with linseed oil.

Check all wooden structures such as fences, pergolas and trellis and make any necessary repairs. Where appropriate apply a preservative.

LAWN

Ensure that the lawn is kept free of wind blown fallen leaves.

Prepare the site of a new lawn now for spring sowing or turfing. It is important that the soil is allowed to settle properly before a new lawn is established.

POND

In prolonged frosty weather keep a small area ice-free with an electric pool heater. This allows the escape of gases resulting from decomposition on the floor of the pool, which if trapped may asphyxiate the fish.

FLOWERS

Protect Christmas roses that are coming into flower from rain splashes by placing an open-ended cloche over them.

Winter flowering shrubs like Jasminum nudiflorum and Viburnum bodnantense can be lightly pruned and some of the blossoming growth taken indoors for floral decoration.
After a sharp frost check all recently planted shrubs, perennials and spring bedding plants for frost heave. This is the lifting of the soil around the plants. When this happens await the thaw and firm the plants back.

VEGETABLES

As winter vegetables are cleared from the plot, dig over any vacant areas incorporating well rotted manure where appropriate. Do not use manure in places designated for root crops.

Traditionally shallot bulbs are planted on the shortest day of the year, but only do this if the soil is in good condition and the weather is kind.

Jerusalem artichoke tubers should be harvested. Select medium-sized tubers for replanting immediately.

FRUIT

Winter wash all apple, pear, plum and cherry trees. Only do so on a frost free day and protect any grass beneath with a polythene sheet.

GREENHOUSE

Bring spring flowering bulbs that are to be forced out into the light and warmth.

Force chicory, seakale and rhubarb in the dark under the greenhouse benching.