Your Garden In December

Protect terracotta pots from cracking in freezing weather by bringing them indoors or wrapping in bubble polythene.Rake up accumulated fallen leaves in borders that could be harbouring slugs and other pests.Plant bare-root roses and other deciduous shrubs, plus ornamental trees.Hang bird feeders near roses to attract hungry birds that will also pick off any overwintering pests.

Cut stems of berried winter shrubs, seasonal flowers and evergreen leaves for festive decorations.Move plants in pots to a sheltered spot if conditions turn very cold, as their roots are more exposed to the elements.

Pile straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them from falling 

temperatures.Plant fragrant winter shrubs in pots on the doorsteps, including chimonanthus, sarcococca and Daphne odora.

Prune climbing roses between now and February.Hard prune overgrown shrubs and hedges while they’re dormant.Check stored bulbs and corms regularly for any signs of rot.

Deadhead indoor azaleas, water regularly and provide cool conditions, away from radiators, to prolong flowering.Move houseplants onto a sunny windowsill over the winter, to get as much light as possible during the shorter days.

Put out fresh water for birds every day during frosty weather.

Bring all watering equipment indoors, including hoses and sprinklers, so they don’t freeze and split.

Scoop fallen leaves and debris from ponds, leave on the side so pondlife can escape, then add to the compost bin.Clear out your shed, and organise and clean your tools

Check tree ties and stakes are firm enough to stand up to winter storms

Order well-rotted manure or mushroom compost to dig in over winter or spread over bare soil for worms to take down.