Gardening Hints & Tips for the month

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Here are some of the main jobs for the winter months of November / December:

Gardening in November and December is all about preparing for winter, protecting plants, and

planning ahead for spring.

1. Clean Up the Garden

• Remove dead annuals and clear fallen leaves (especially if diseased).

• Compost healthy plant matter, but dispose of anything that shows signs of disease or pests.

2. Protect Perennials

• Mulch around the base of perennials with straw, compost, or bark to insulate roots.

• Cut back dead foliage only if it’s not beneficial for overwintering insects (some seed heads

are great for birds and wildlife!).

3. Plant Spring Bulbs

• Get those tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths in the ground ASAP.

• Add bone meal or bulb food for a better bloom next year.

4. Prune Smartly

• Prune roses lightly if needed to prevent wind damage.

• Avoid heavy pruning of trees and shrubs—it’s best in late winter or early spring for most

species.

5. Protect Vulnerable Plants

• Use fleece, cloches, or wraps for tender plants like fuchsias or young shrubs.

• Lift and store dahlias, cannas, and gladiolus bulbs in a cool, dry place.

LAWN CARE.

• Rake leaves regularly to avoid mould and moss.

• Avoid heavy traffic on a frosty or soggy lawn to prevent damage.

• Aerate and apply autumn lawn feed if not already done.

VEG GARDEN What to sow or plant (depending on climate/greenhouse access):

• Garlic

• Onion sets

• Broad beans

• Winter salads (in greenhouse or cold frames)

Other tasks:

• Cover empty beds with mulch, cardboard, or green manure to protect the soil.

• Harvest leeks, parsnips, kale, and Brussels sprouts (they’re sweeter after frost!).

INDOOR & GREENHOUSE

• Bring tender plants indoors or into a greenhouse before frost.

• Check houseplants for pests and reduce watering (less light = slower growth).

• Use bubble wrap or thermal insulation in greenhouses to reduce heat loss.

• Ventilate on sunny days to avoid damp and mould.

WILDLIFE & NATURE

• Clean and refill bird feeders and birdbaths – birds need extra help in winter.

• Leave some seed heads and leaf piles for insects and small mammals.

• Consider installing a hedgehog house or bug hotel.

PLANNING AHEAD

• Start browsing seed catalogues and sketching out your 2026 garden.

• Organise tools, clean pots, sharpen blades.

• Check stored crops (onions, potatoes, squash) for rot and remove anything spoiled.