December is often quiet in the garden, but with the right attention, you can already lay the foundation for a strong and green spring. While many plants are entering their dormancy, you can take smart steps in terms of maintenance, protection, and planning.
What to do in the garden in December?
1. Planting flower bulbs in December
As long as the ground is not frozen, you can planting flower bulbs in December — think tulips, daffodils and crocuses — so your garden will have colour later in the spring.
You can also plant or transplant trees, shrubs or bushes, as long as you do not expose the roots to frosty cold.
2. Preparing the garden for winter & frost protection
- Protect frost-sensitive plants with fleece, straw, leaves or jute bags.
- Place container plants in a sheltered spot or indoors if they cannot tolerate frost.
- Press the soil around taller plants firmly and support them so that wind does not damage the roots.
- Turn off outside taps and drain pipes to prevent freezing.
- Cover paths with sand instead of salt, because salt damages plants and soil.
3. Lawn maintenance in December
- Remove the last leaves from the lawn to prevent suffocation and mold formation.
- Don't walk on the grass in frost — you could cause permanent damage.
- Leave the grass unmown at a slightly higher height; it is best to postpone fertilizing or spreading lime during frost.
4. Pruning & maintenance in December
- Prune only when the weather is mild and not in frost.
- Possible pruning tasks: grapes, kiwis, espalier trees — provided you keep the timing right.
- Sometimes leave faded parts of plants standing as natural protection for the buds.
- Cut back some holly branches for winter decorations or Christmas — but also give birds a place to enjoy them.
5. Vegetable garden & harvesting in December
- Harvest winter vegetables such as kale, leeks, Brussels sprouts and parsnips — as long as the frost permits.
- Clear away old plant debris to prevent diseases in spring.
- Use compost or mulch as a mulch on empty beds to maintain soil structure and fertility.
6. Pond maintenance in December
- Make sure your pond doesn't freeze over completely: use an air pump or ice preventer.
- Remove snow from the ice so that light can penetrate and the ecosystem can function better.
- Consider removing frost-sensitive aquatic plants from the pond and storing them indoors or in a frost-free location.
7. Birds & garden animals in winter
- Feeding birds: use fat balls, peanuts or seed mixes and provide fresh drinking water (not frozen).
- Leave leaves and branches to provide hiding places for hedgehogs, insects and other animals.
- Hang or clean nest boxes — birds often use them as roosting places in winter.
8. Caring for indoor and container plants in December
- Water less — growth is largely at a standstill.
- Place plants closer to windows for extra light.
- Check for pests such as spider mites or whiteflies: they can thrive in dry, warm houses.
- Use potting soil or organic materials to maintain some humidity.
December in one sentence
December is the quiet month in which you focus on protection, planting where possible, and preparing the garden for a strong start in spring — with attention to detail and care.
