December - The Winter Solstice!

• Carefully lift any remaining dahlia and begonia tubers, trim off the dead foliage, label, then store in dry sand or compost in a cool, frost-free place. Alternatively, apply a thick layer of mulch over the plants in situ to protect the tubers from frost over the winter.

• Start to prune and maintain most deciduous trees and shrubs – the main exceptions being evergreens or tender shrubs, and cherries, plums and other stone fruit.

• Tie in wall trained shrubs and climbers to prevent wind damage.

• Harvest and enjoy the root crops and brassicas from the vegetable garden.

• Continue to remove from lawns and paths and add to the leaf mould bin.

• Maintain home-groan Poinsettias so they receive at least 12 hours of ininterrupted darkness every night to encourage brack formation.