Northwest Gardening In December: Tips and Tricks for a Beautiful Winter Garden
While many gardeners in the Pacific Northwest hang up their gloves and trowels for the year, December is actually a great time to get outside and tend to your garden. With cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, this month is perfect for planting, pruning, and preparing for the upcoming spring. In this article, we'll cover some tips and tricks for Northwest gardening in December, so you can keep your garden looking beautiful all year long.
1. Plant Ornamental Shrubs and Trees
The cool, damp weather of December makes it an ideal time to plant ornamental shrubs and trees in your garden. These plants have a chance to establish their roots before the dry summer months hit, which helps them grow stronger and healthier. Some great options for Northwest gardens include camellias, hollies, and viburnums. Be sure to select plants that are suited to your specific climate and soil type, and follow proper planting techniques to ensure success.
2. Prune Deciduous Trees and Shrubs
Winter is the best time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs, as they are dormant and have shed their leaves. This makes it easier to see the structure of the plant and make cuts that will encourage healthy growth. Use clean, sharp tools and follow proper pruning techniques to avoid damaging the plant. Some common plants that benefit from winter pruning include fruit trees, roses, and hydrangeas.
3. Protect Tender Plants from Frost
In colder areas of the Pacific Northwest, frost can be a concern during the winter months. To protect tender plants, cover them with blankets or burlap on nights when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. You can also mulch around the base of the plant to help insulate the roots. Just be sure to remove any covering or mulch during the day to allow sunlight and air to reach the plant.
4. Start Planning for Spring
While it may seem like a long way off, now is the perfect time to start planning for next year's garden. Consider which plants performed well this year, and which ones struggled. Make a list of new plants you'd like to try, and research their growing requirements to ensure they're a good fit for your garden. Take note of any garden tasks you didn't get around to this year, and make a plan to tackle them early next year.
5. Feed Your Lawn
If you have a lawn in your garden, now is a good time to give it a boost of nutrients to help it survive the winter months. Choose a fertilizer that's formulated for winter use, as these tend to have higher levels of potassium and phosphorus, which promote root growth and cold tolerance. Apply the fertilizer according to package instructions, and water thoroughly after application.
6. Clean and Organize Your Tools
Finally, take advantage of the rainy weather by cleaning and organizing your gardening tools. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove rust from metal tools, and sharpen blades with a file or whetstone. Wipe down wooden handles with linseed oil to prevent them from drying out and cracking. And don't forget to organize your tools in a way that makes them easy to find and access when you need them.
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