I've kept the list to points to tick off this month as I am sure you are all working flat out on the preparation for the festivities and the garden can take a back seat as you prepare for the Christmas break.

I have protected my terracotta pots from cracking in freezing weather by bringing them indoors or wrapping in bubble polythene
Keep raking up accumulated fallen leaves in borders that could be harbouring slugs and other pests
Plant those bare-root roses and other deciduous shrubs, plus ornamental trees
Hang bird feeders near roses to attract hungry birds that will also pick off any overwintering pests
Move plants in pots to a sheltered spot if conditions turn very cold, as their roots are more exposed to the elements
Pile straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them from falling temperatures
Plant fragrant winter shrubs in pots on the doorsteps, including chimonanthus, sarcococca and Daphne odora
Check stored bulbs and corms regularly for any signs of rot


Put out fresh water for birds every day during frosty weather
Bring all watering equipment indoors, including hoses and sprinklers, so they don't freeze and split
Scoop fallen leaves and debris from ponds, leave on the side so pondlife can escape, then add to the compost bin
Clear out your shed, ( or in my case the van ) and organise and clean your tools
Work off Christmas excesses by digging over bare areas of ground, incorporating garden compost
Check tree ties and stakes are firm enough to stand up to winter storms
Order well-rotted manure or mushroom compost to dig in over winter or spread over bare soil for worms to take down
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