Grow Your Own - December Jobs

It's December, and what better way to welcome in the winter season than to get your hands dirty and start growing your own food? There are plenty of jobs to get stuck into this month, from planting garlic and broad beans to harvesting root crops such as potatoes and carrots. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can have your own homegrown vegetable patch up and running in no time!

What to Sow & Plant in December
December is a great time to sow and plant in your garden, despite the chilly temperatures. While the winter may seem like a quiet time for gardening, there are still plenty of tasks you can tackle to ensure a bountiful harvest in the months to come.

In the fruit department, now is the perfect time to plant new trees and bushes. However, be sure to check that the ground isn't waterlogged or frozen before planting. This will ensure that your new additions have the best chance of establishing themselves.

When it comes to vegetables, consider planting shallots and garlic in mild areas with well-drained soil. These hardy crops can withstand the cold weather and will provide you with delicious additions to your meals next year.

Remember, gardening in December is all about planning for the future. While you may not see immediate results, the efforts you put in now will pay off in the months to come. So, get your gloves on, brave the cold, and start sowing and planting to set yourself up for a successful gardening season.

What is ready to harvest in December
As winter sets in, there is still plenty to harvest from your garden in December. Despite the cold weather, you'll be delighted to find a variety of vegetables ready to be picked and enjoyed. Here's a list of the bountiful produce that is waiting for you in the depths of winter:

• Beetroot: These vibrant, earthy vegetables are packed with flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to roasts.
• Turnips: These versatile root vegetables can be boiled, roasted, or mashed, and they add a deliciously unique flavor to your meals.
• Parsnips: Sweet and nutty, parsnips are a winter favorite. Roast them alongside your other vegetables for a delightful side dish.
• Brussels sprouts: These little green gems are a quintessential Christmas vegetable. Boil or roast them until they are tender and serve them as a side dish or add them to a hearty winter salad.
• Celery: Harvest the outer stalks of celery and enjoy their crunchy texture and refreshing taste in soups, stir-fries, or as a snack with some creamy peanut butter.
• Swedes: These root vegetables are similar to turnips and can be roasted, mashed, or used in stews for a comforting winter meal.
• Cabbages: Harvest the outer leaves of your cabbages and use them in stir-fries, coleslaws, or hearty winter soups.
• Leeks: These mild and flavorful vegetables can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, or even roasted as a side dish.

With this diverse range of vegetables ready to be harvested in December, you'll have plenty of fresh, homegrown produce to add to your winter meals. So, put on your gardening gloves and venture out into your garden to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Plants to Prune and Train in December
Pruning and training your plants in December is essential for their overall health and productivity. In the fruit department, it's time to thin out the congested spurs of restricted fruit trees to ensure proper air circulation and sunlight penetration. This will result in healthier trees and better fruit production next year. Don't forget to tie in new tiers of espaliers, giving them the support they need to grow in the desired shape.

When it comes to specific fruit trees, it's time to prune apples, pears, quinces, and medlars. Pruning these trees now will encourage strong growth in the spring and promote the development of tasty fruit. Additionally, don't forget to prune your autumn raspberries, removing any old or weak canes to make way for new growth.

For berry lovers, December is also the time to prune red and white currants and gooseberries. Pruning these bushes will help maintain their shape and improve their overall productivity.

By taking the time to prune and train your plants in December, you'll set them up for success in the coming year. So grab your pruners and get to work, ensuring that your garden is in top shape for a fruitful season ahead. Happy pruning!

Garden Problems, Pests & Diseases in December
December brings its fair share of garden problems, pests, and diseases that require attention. As the weather gets colder,

• it's important to protect your new sowings and crops from pesky mice who are looking for a winter meal. Place mice controls near stored fruit and vegetables to keep them at bay.
• Don't forget about slugs, as they can still be a threat to your garden. Implement slug controls to prevent them from munching on your plants.
• Pigeons can also cause damage to your brassicas, so make sure to protect them with cloches, netting, or fleece. Removing any yellowed leaves from your brassicas will prevent the development of grey mould and brassica downy mildew.
• As you clean up your vegetable plot, be sure to remove any remaining plant debris, especially diseased material. This will help prevent the spread of diseases to healthy plants. Additionally, remove any rotten stored fruit to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
• Deal with apple and pear canker and bitter pit in stored apples, as these can affect the quality of your fruit.

By being proactive and addressing these garden problems, pests, and diseases in December, you can ensure the health and productivity of your garden throughout the winter months.

General care
In addition to specific tasks for December, there are a few general care tips to keep in mind to ensure the health and success of your garden.
For fruit, make sure to tie in new tiers of espaliers to provide support and promote healthy growth.

When it comes to vegetables, if you're expecting hard frosts, cover trenches of stored root crops with a layer of cardboard to protect them while still allowing easy access for harvesting. Stake or earth up Brussels sprouts stalks that may be vulnerable to wind rock. Now is also the perfect time to force chicory, potting them up and placing them in a dark, warm location to encourage the growth of tasty chicons. Don't forget to dig over vacant areas of the vegetable plot and incorporate soil improvers for healthier soil. Clear late-season debris and compost it, but be sure to discard any diseased material to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Finally, clean and store bamboo canes in a dry place for future use.

By following these general care tips, you'll keep your garden in top shape throughout the winter months.

Tips for Successful Winter Gardening
When it comes to successful winter gardening, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure to choose the right plants for the season. Look for cold-hardy varieties that can withstand the colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Consider vegetables like Brussels sprouts, winter squash, and kale, which thrive in winter conditions.

Next, pay attention to soil health. Make sure to amend your soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its structure and fertility. This will help provide the necessary nutrients for your plants to thrive.
Additionally, protect your plants from harsh weather conditions. Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to create a microclimate that can shield your plants from frost and freezing temperatures.

Don't forget about watering, even in the winter. While your plants may not need as much water as in the summer, they still require hydration. Water deeply but less frequently to avoid overwatering and root rot.

Lastly, continue to monitor and address any garden problems, pests, or diseases that may arise during the winter months. Regularly inspect your plants and take prompt action to prevent any issues from getting out of control.

By following these tips, you can have a successful winter garden and continue to enjoy homegrown produce throughout the colder months.