Winter has arrived and the garden is has largely gone to sleep. It said this about November, but it is still true. All around us is the dead and dying of this year’s growth. And what does this mean? Continuing to clear up the mess. Again, so what should we do?

Make a list – this is my list for my garden. Why not make your own for your own garden?

Climbers

• Prune ornamental vines.

Fruit

• Prune blackcurrants.

Maintaining the garden

• Feed birds in cold weather, ensuring that bird baths do not freeze.
• Continue winter digging, incorporating lots of organic matter, if at all possible.
• Clean paths, and repair sheds and fences and any garden woodwork.
• Shred the prunings from ornamental plants and fruit trees and bushes.
• Continue removing garden debris and cutting down dead growth.
• Protect plants from frost.
• Keep an eye on new trees and shrubs for problems (for instance, wind rock).

Pruning

• Prune woody ornamental plants and fruit trees and bushes, tall bush roses, and overgrown deciduous hedges, trees and shrubs.

Most important task

• Sit and enjoy your garden in the now faded light, but stay warm. Continue contemplating a year well spent.