December

To protect your potted plants from the harshest winter weather group them in a sheltered spot. Prepare your soil for next year’s planting by digging over empty borders. Get pruning — roses, fruit trees, wisteria and Japanese maples are some of the plants that can benefit from a winter prune. Don’t forget the birds – stock up on fat balls, clean feeders, and make sure there is access to fresh water. Leave the faded flower heads on your hydrangeas until spring, as they provide frost protection to the swelling buds further down the stems. Clean out the greenhouse thoroughly. Wash the glass, the floor and the staging with horticultural disinfectant to kill any overwintering pests and diseases.