DECEMBER
"A garden is a thing of beauty, and a job
forever."—Richard Briers, British actor
Hopefully your garden has been put to bed by this
time. The seed catalogs will begin to arrive later this month. Get yourself a
hot drink, a stack of catalogs and begin to plan next years garden.
Amazing Amaryllis. Purchase some Amaryllis, Christmas cactus, or Poinsettias to give as
holiday gifts.
Tree Patrol. Protect young trees from mice and
rabbit damage by placing tree guards around the trunk. Be sure to take into
account the snow depth to make sure the guard is high enough.
Happy Houseplants. To ensure houseplants have
sufficient humidity, place them in pebble filled trays with water. The
evaporating water will supply the needed humidity. The low light levels of
winter call for some adjustments in the location of houseplants. Move plants
that normally thrive on the north side of the house to the east side. Keep them
away from cold drafts.
Evergreen Care. Spray anti-desiccant on
broad-leaved evergreens and boxwoods to prevent dehydration.
Tree Tip. Keep fresh cut Christmas trees in a
cool, but not freezing location. When you get it home cut 1-2 inches from the
trunk and place into a bucket of cool water.
Ice Management. Avoid using rock salt on
sidewalks and driveways to melt ice and snow. Use an alternative such as sand,
or kitty litter. For plants, gently remove ice and snow that accumulates on
shrubs and small trees to avoid breaking branches.
Holiday Gift Ideas. Give your spouse or significant other a
garden wish list. Garden tools or gift certificates from your favorite catalogs
make great gifts for the gardener. Order a subscription to Organic Gardening
to a gardening pal.
Soil Smarts. Avoid walking on semi-frozen lawns
and beds to prevent soil compaction.
Inspect Your Hand Tools. Sand and apply linseed
oil to wooden handles. Remove rust and repaint metal parts. I've painted the
handles of my hand tools a bright orange to make them easier to find in the
garden
Thanks to all of my readers for another great year.
May your gardens grow well, and you find health and happiness in your garden.
correspondent: Paul Rodman