DECEMBER GARDEN NOTES

By John Draper
It’s time to review the plants in your garden that easily survive hot, dry summers and those that struggle. Dig out shrubs that have died and consider their suitability for the position and the soil. Replace with more suitable species after you have enriched the soil with plenty of organic matter to hold onto as much moisture as possible. Make a note of the successes in the garden and vegetable patch that are worth repeating and the failures that need avoiding.
Beds & Borders
Tidy up between shrubs and trees getting rid of all the weeds that are present. Doing the job in December is very opportune if you have spring bulbs between your established plants, you can kill off the weeds before spring bulbs break through the winter soil.
Using the leading weed control product Weedol Max® will make this project really easy. It’s completely inactivated on contact with the soil, is rainfast just ten minutes after application and works at all temperatures at all times of the year. Weedol Max can be used around flowers, shrubs, fruit and vegetables without leaving harmful residues’ and its safe for children and pets.
Patio Tubs & Baskets
Maintain winter interest and colour with tubs, baskets and window boxes planted with winter pansies, variegated ivy and purple flowering heather.
The Lawn
With the recent warm weather the grass has continued to grow and it may still need a cut to keep it looking good and the envy of the neighbourhood. The increase in rainfall has also seen a dramatic increase in worm activity. Worm casts play havoc, making lawns look messy and ultimately encourage weeds and weed grasses.
A wire rake is good for removing casts, alternatively use a brush. A recent application of an Autumn dressing will have helped to increase the acidity of the soil which will help deter earthworms, but you can give extra help by collecting up fallen leaves as this will remove surface food which encourage worms to cast. If finding a dry day to cut the lawn is a problem drag the reverse side of a brush over the lawn, wait 30 minutes or so and then the lawn should be dry enough to cut.
Grow Your Own
It’s still not too late to plant bare root fruit trees and bushes before the ground freezes solid.
Telephone 0115 846 5113 or more detailed information can be found at greenergardens.co.uk
Weedol Max® contains pelargonic acid. Always read the label. Use pesticides safely.
®Trademarks of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company or its affiliates (www.lovethegarden.com).