Search Plants
Try for Free
Winter Gardening
This blog post offers an in-depth guide to December gardening activities, focusing on planting bare-root trees, shrubs, and roses. It provides gardeners with essential tips for successful winter gardening, covering preparation steps, soil conditions, maintenance advice, and solutions to common challenges faced during this month.
As the crisp air of December ushers in a more relaxed pace in the garden, it's a perfect time to focus on establishing new plant life that will thrive in the cooler weather. Gardening during this month involves strategic planning and execution, as we aim to set the stage for spring growth by planting bare-root trees, shrubs, and roses.
Preparation Steps
Begin by selecting high-quality bare-root specimens from reputable nurseries. Ensure you have all necessary tools at hand—spades, gloves, compost or well-rotted manure for enriching the soil—and choose a calm day to avoid wind damage during planting. Test your soil's drainage by filling a hole with water; if it drains within a few hours, you're good to go. Amend poor soils accordingly.
Planting Techniques & Tips
When planting bare-root plants, dig a hole wide enough for roots to spread naturally. Trim any damaged roots before placing the plant in its new home. The graft union (the bulge near the base) should be just above ground level after settling. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around but not against stems or trunks.
Maintenance and Care
Post-planting care is critical for survival through winter months. Regularly check moisture levels—watering if there's been insufficient rain—and protect from frost using burlap wraps if sudden cold snaps are forecasted. Staking young trees can prevent wind rock which loosens roots and hampers establishment.
Securing Success Beyond Winter
While immediate tasks revolve around planting and protecting your new additions this December, look forward also to ongoing care including pruning in late winter or early spring before buds break dormancy. With these preparations made now under cool skies of December you'll find your garden ready to burst into vibrant life come spring.
Conclusion
