December in the garden
Late Autumn planting
While the ground is still warm it is still possible to plant bulbs, roses, fruit, trees and shrubs.
The window for Autumn planting ends when the frost arrive, usually at the end of the year, and it’s important to keep newly-planted plant’s well-watered until the ground freezes so they get a good start before going into full dormancy during Winter.
Using mycorrhizal fungi, we sell Empathy Rootgrow. The fungi attaches itself to the roots of the rose and stimulates much stronger root growth for longer lasting, better performing plants. It also helps the soil recover if you’re planting a rose where one use to be. Mycorrhizal fungi can be used when planting most plants.
Feed the birds
Birds can’t rely on worms and fruits in the winter for food. Instead they turn to seeds, and that’s something you as their human neighbour can help them stock up on. Make sure to place the bird feeder in a spot that’s sheltered from strong winds.
It’s so rewarding to feed the garden birds and now is the time to start to regularly feed them, as temperatures start to fall. Visit our garden bird food and care section for ideas.
Lawns
Avoid walking on your lawn when it’s blanketed by heavy frost or snow, as this damages the grass.
If it’s a mild winter, continue to cut the lawn as it grows, but raise the height of the mower blades.
Spike lawns with a garden fork to improve drainage and aeration.
Keep clearing leaves off the lawn to let the light in and prevent dead patches appearing.
Send your lawnmower and shears to be serviced and sharpened while they’re less in demand.
Sustainable gardening
Every garden has the potential to become a beautiful, natural space that plays a crucial role in improving and supporting the wellbeing of both people, wildlife and the planet.
‘During the pandemic people have appreciated their gardens to a greater degree than ever and have become more aware of wildlife, so they are increasingly keen to learn more about gardening and in gardening to enhance the environment’ say the RHS. ‘Happily it is neither difficult nor expensive to get greater benefit from gardens without harming the planet.’
Water conservation is a crucial aspect of sustainable gardening. Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for use in your garden, reducing reliance on mains water sources. Install rain water butts or a rainwater collection system to capture water from your roof or other surfaces. Use this harvested water to irrigate your plants, saving resources and reducing your water bill. Additionally, adopt efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or hand-watering to minimize water waste and deliver water directly to the plants’ roots.
From all at Singletons Nurseries and The Potting Shed Tearooms, we wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas, and a happy and healthy 2025 🎄