Gardening in December: What to do and what to plant?

With clear and crisp days, December is a peaceful time for the gardener to relax and reflect on a year in the garden. It’s also an important time to plan ahead for the new year and get ready for frost…

Things to do in your garden in December:

• Inspect windbreak fences for damage and repair any damage promptly
• Inspect trees and shrubs for bark damage
• Winter-prune wisteria, cutting back whippy summer side-shoots to 2 or 3 buds
• Prune climbing roses, removing diseased or damaged growth and tying in any new shoots
• Prune and trim trees and shrubs
• Clear gutters to prevent water damage
• Feed the birds
• Protect fragile plants from frost and cold weather
• Cover plants with frost blankets or other protective coverings
• Mulch all growing beds to protect plants from harsh weather and provide nutrients
• Clear away snow from paths and driveways
• Add a layer of mulch to protect the soil and retain moisture
• Start composting
• Take root cuttings
• Give your soil a boost for next year
• Sow indoor herbs such as mint, chives, and dill in a container on a sunny kitchen windowsill

Things to plant in December

In December, you can plant or sow a variety of vegetables and herbs indoors, including tomatoes, potatoes, peas, squash, lettuce, arugula, spinach, peppers, cucumbers and radishes.

Did you manage to get all of your November tasks done? Maybe it’s good to make a start on your to-do list for January too…

Looking for more on gardening?

The climate in France is generally milder than the UK, allowing for a wider variety of plants to thrive. Many properties in France come with large gardens, providing ample space for various gardening activities. So if you’re looking for inspiration or information, take a look at our gardening page