Tip #1: Spread a layer of mulch around semi-hardy or tender shrubs, trees, or perennials.
To insulate roots from freezing, spread a liberal layer of pine or wood mulch around semi-hardy or tender shrubs, trees, or perennials such as palms, banana trees, and elephant ears.
Tip #2: December is a great time to plant shrubs, trees, or groundcovers.
Contrary to popular belief, December, and in fact the entire winter season, is a great time to plant most any shrubs, trees, or groundcovers. Winter planting of most dormant shrubs and trees allows them acclimate to their new environment before receiving the huge benefit from an early root flush when soil temperatures begin to warm up in spring. There is absoulutely no danger at all from planting most shrubs and trees in December. profesional landscapers successfully plant through the entire winter!
Tip #3: December is a good time to relocate/transplant shrubs or small trees.
If there are some shrubs or small trees that you would like to transplant/relocate in the landscape, the winter dormant season is a good time to do so. How do we know plants have gone dormant? When all the leaves have fallen from the trees we know the dormant season is here.
Note: Some plants, such as established conifers and junipers, simply do not respond well to relocation.
Tip #4: Purchase a container grown Christmas tree.
Consider purchasing a container grown Christmas tree this season that can be planted in your landscape in the New Year!
Tip #5: Fertilize Pansies and other cool season annual plants.
Fertilize your pansies that were planted earlier in the Fall with a flower food containing "nitrate" form of nitrogen. Fertilize pansies every 4-6 weeks for best bloom production and overall performance.
Tip #6: Heavy pruning of shrubs and trees can be done at this time.
If you have shrubs or trees that need a heavy pruning, December is a great time to do so.
Caution: Do not prune spring flowering shrubs or trees such as Azaleas and Forsythias (Yellow Bells) until later on in the spring, after they have finished blooming.
Caution: Do Not prune Lantana plants until new growth begins to emerge later on in Spring. Fall pruning ensures death of the plant.
Tip #7: Collect fallen leaves to add to your compost pile or bin.
Veteran gardeners swear by compost. Organic compost is unrivaled for adding readily available nutrients and beneficial bacteria to vegetable garden soil, or adding to the mix when planting shrubs, trees, perennials, annuals, and container plantings, promoting healthy and vigorous growth of plants. Compost is an environmentally smart way to turn houslehold food waste and vegetative landscape and garden waste into something besides a bulge in your garbage bag. Making your own compost is very easy; nothing more than piling up leaves, clippings, kitchen scraps and other materials into a heap, and waiting for it to ferment.
