What to do in the garden in December?

December is the time for gardening, even though temperatures are lower and days are shorter. This time of year is often thought of as a time for gardeners to rest, but it is actually a crucial time to prepare the garden for the seasons to come. From protecting plants to maintaining the soil to planning future crops, there are plenty of activities to do during this cold period.

One of the first steps to take is to protect plants that are sensitive to the cold, especially Mediterranean or tropical plants, such as citrus fruits, olive trees or oleanders. For these plants, installing wintering veils is recommended. These veils, made of non-woven material, keep the heat around the plant while letting air and light through. It is also possible to mulch the base of the plants to protect the roots against frost. Mulching can be done with natural materials such as straw, dead leaves or compost.

Winter is a great time to tend to the soil, as it rests while waiting for the plants to return. In December, it is beneficial to prepare the soil for future crops by aerating the soil and adding compost or well-rotted manure. This improves the soil structure and enriches it with nutrients for spring planting. In colder regions, it is advisable to cover the soil with mulch or green manure. These methods protect the soil from frost, prevent it from becoming depleted and enrich the soil with organic matter.

December is also a good month to prune certain fruit trees, particularly apple, pear and stone fruit trees. Winter pruning helps to structure trees, promotes fruiting and reduces the risk of disease. It should be done in dry weather, to prevent humidity from encouraging the development of fungi or other infections. In addition, it is wise to remove mummified fruit that remains attached to the branches; these may contain parasites or diseases that risk infecting future harvests.

Gardening in December also involves good planning for spring. This is a good time to think about what crops you want to plant next year and order seeds if necessary. It is helpful to rotate crops to maintain soil health. Changing vegetable families from year to year reduces the risk of disease and optimizes the use of soil nutrients.

Finally, December is a great month to maintain your tools. With the harvest over and less work in the garden, you can take the time to clean, sharpen and, if necessary, repair your tools. This protects them from rust and ensures that they are ready for future work. Storing tools away from moisture is also essential to prolong their lifespan.