Gardening Jobs for December

If you need an escape from all the Christmas preparations, there are plenty of gardening jobs to do in December. Most plants may be resting but work you do now will help get you in good stead for the new year to come.

Feed the birds

Putting out high-fat (high-energy) foods for birds in winter will help our feathered friends to get through the worst of the weather. Adjust the quantity you put out according to demand, regularly wash bird feeders and throw away old food. Don't forget to put out a bowl of water too. Give it a wash regularly and change the water. Check if it's frozen during cold weather.

Prune apple and pear trees

Remove dead/weak growth and crossing branches. Shorten this year’s growth on main branches by a third to a bud facing the direction you want it to grow in. Cut back side-shoots to five or six buds.

Buy pots of bulbs

For colour and scent over Christmas, you can't beat pots of bulbs such as hyacinths or paper-white narcissus. Don't worry if you didn't get around to planting some in autumn, as you can buy pots of ready-grown bulbs now. To keep them at their best for as long as possible, put them in a well-lit spot in a cool room.

Wreath Making

Book you wreath making workshop at Meadow Grange.

Meet Santa at Meadow Grange

For those of you with children or grandchildren, make sure to book in to see our very special Christmas guest, all in aid of the Whitstable and Herne Bay Lions.