Pruning and Planting
- Prune fruit trees such as apple and pear trees, as well as blackcurrant bushes and raspberries, if not done earlier.
- Avoid pruning plums and cherries to prevent silver leaf disease.
- Plant new fruit trees and bushes in good conditions with deep soil, full sunshine, and good shelter.
Soil Preparation and Composting
- Dig over vegetable ground during dry weather, leaving the soil in good condition for spring.
- Spread compost on the vegetable ground before digging it in.
- Empty compost heaps and spread the compost on the vegetable ground or for digging in.
Tidying and Weeding
- Remove old crops and tidy away rubbish.
- Control weeds over areas of ground to be dug over later.
- Clear weeds from the vegetable garden, ensuring they don’t grow over winter.
Rhubarb Care
- Plant rhubarb stools in a sunny spot with good soil.
- Lift rhubarb for forcing in a black bag in a warm place.
Root Crops and Herb Maintenance
- Lift and store any remaining root crops in a suitable shed or outdoor pit.
- Cut back or divide and replant overgrown herb plants.
By following these December care tips for fruit, vegetables, and herbs, you can ensure a healthy and productive edible garden during the winter months.
