q       Now that the holidays are out of the way, start perusing those seed catalogs and order as soon as possible to be sure seeds arrive in time to start indoors or later in cold frames.

q       You can cut back Liriope this month, or wait until closer to spring - but do not wait until the new shoots start to emerge.

q       Prune spring-flowering plants minimally to retain as many flower buds as possible.

q       Prune summer-flowering shrubs that bloom on new growth, such as Chaste Tree & Butterfly Bush, as long as the sap is not frozen.  Can be pruned hard to force new growth and provide more blooms.  Keep overall shape in mind while pruning.

q       Giant hybrid Clematis can be pruned hard this month and up until new growth appears (if you are not sure which type you have, consult a Clematis book, such as 'The Gardener's Guide to Growing Clematis' from Timber Press Books. 

q       Fertilize newly planted trees & shrubs with an Organic 15-15-15 product, and also large shade trees at the end of the month.  Fertilize summer-flowering trees with a 5-10-15 product after pruning.

q      Continue planting trees and shrubs (including roses) this month, as long as the ground is not frozen or too wet.

q      Do not plant Southern Magnolias or Cherry Laurels until Late February or March.

q      It is okay to plant hardy groundcovers this month, such as Liriope, Juniper, or Ivy.  As with trees, avoid planting when ground is frozen or too wet.

q      Continue to monitor soil moisture around newly planted shrubs & trees.  If we receive less than 1" of rain per week, provide supplemental water.  Consider attaching a rain barrel to your downspout to collect rainwater for later watering of plants when rain is scarce. 

q      Continue adding new mulch to any beds that need it.  Mulch will help retain moisture, protect roots from freezing and help prevent perennials from being "heaved" out of the ground during freezing temperatures.  Keep all mulch away from necks of plants.

q      Keep snow from accumulating on limber broadleaf evergreens, like Boxwood.  Remove snow gently with a broom.  Sturdier plants, such as Camellias, benefit from an insulating layer of snow.

* These tips are just general suggestions.  Be sure to consult your local Cooperative Extension Agent or a good book, such as The American Horticultural Society's Pruning & Training Manual for more thorough instructions.

December Tips