December Lawn & Plant Care

December brings many wonderful things to each of us. It’s the time for giving and sharing with those that you love! But don’t forget about your yard….

Wondering what to do with all those fallen leaves? Add them to your compost bin or use them for mulch, but just make sure you are keeping your lawn clear of a blanket of leaves to avoid smothering your grass and encountering dead patches once spring returns. Make sure you are checking the moisture level of your soil and water your lawn as needed throughout the winter months. If you brought outdoor plants inside, make sure you are checking them for insects.

Do you have empty rows in your flower beds or garden? Inspect these areas and keep them clear of insects and disease. This is also a good time to add compost to your empty beds and garden. By doing this periodically throughout the winter months, you will have less to do once spring comes around. 

December does not mean the end of the gardening season. According to Mississippi State University now through December is the time to plant garlic. Plant garlic cloves 2 to 3 inches deep in well drained highly organic soil. The foliage will soon emerge and form somewhat of a rosette that will remain through the winter. More vigorous growth will resume in the spring with the onset of warmer weather. Tip: To remove skin easily from garlic cloves, soak cloves for five minutes in warm water.

Grapes, muscadines, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries can also be planted during November and December. Continue planting your seasonal annuals (pansies, alyssum, petunias, etc.) to add color to your outdoors, and bring more color indoors by using a holiday favorite, poinsettias!