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WHAT TO DO IN THE GARDEN IN
We are approaching the coldest time of the year and a small number of timely preparations need to be made to make sure your vulnerable plants survive until the spring.
Shrubs and small trees in containers can be staked and covered with frost cloth. If there is room, the greenhouse or a conservatory can be used to ‘store’ more delicate plants that are at risk outside. Canes can be inserted in the soil around tender plants, tied at the apex to form a ‘tepee’ and a cloth thrown over and secured. On frosty nights, cover the cold frame with sacking and remove it the following morning. Soil is highly corrosive to steel tools and smooth surfaces can become pitted, making tools less efficient. Secure spades and hoes in a vice and sharpen the cutting edges with a file. The pivot pins in shears and secateurs should be removed to separate the parts and the blades are sharpened with an oil stone. Pivot pins should be tightened to make sure clean cuts are made. Wipe metal parts of tools with an oily rag to help prevent rusting. More Information GO TO NEXT
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WEEK'S "WHAT TO DO"
DECEMBER 8th to 15th
Fork up the soil around herbaceous perennials and draw it over the root clumps, giving them an extra layer of protection. Leaf mould gathered from under deciduous trees or straw, can be used as a protective mulch.
After winter pruning, fruit trees and bushes can be sprayed according to manufacturer’s instructions. At this time of year, the eggs of pests can be destroyed and later, the emerging insect larvae. For spraying, pick a still day or an early morning, preferably when rain is not forecast, when there is little air movement to avoid sprays drifting on to non-target plants or neighbouring properties. Leave until next month if the weather is unreliable.
When work outdoors is not possible, pay some attention to tools. Normally, tools are put away until they are needed the next time. A wire brush or stiff scrubbing brush can be used to remove soil from spades and other tools.
Lawnmowers and other powered tools should be taken away for servicing. If you are mechanically inclined, do it yourself. An efficiently working machine will save your labour and last longer.
For more detailed information and timings go to our individual
vegetable,
herb and
fruit pages. If you want to see a
condensed vegetable advice page with planting, sowing, care and
harvesting information for the entire year on one page then go to our
vegetable calendar.