2020 seems to have whizzed past us and we’ve lived through some historical events that will mark not only this year but the start of the decade. As this year comes to a close, here are some last-minute gardening tasks you might want to get started on before we finally welcome the upcoming year with much cheer and hope!
- Protect your plants from the freeze.
While the Texas climate makes gardening possible all-year round, there are still days when the weather brings you snow or freezes your plants. Protect your plants from winter damage by putting some row cover. This prevents frostbitten plants and increase their chances of surviving and thriving throughout the cold season. - Plant your flowering plants, green vegetables, and herbs just in time for spring harvest.
Despite the cold, shade-loving plants thrive on this cool weather. If you dream of a flowerbed that’s bursting of blooms come spring, then December is the best time to plant them. Green vegetables can also be planted even in December granted you choose a spot where they can receive full sunlight. Herbs such as oregano and thyme will also have an easy time growing. - Clean your gardening tools.
In case you do your own gardening and maintenance, December is the best time to give your gardening tools a deep, thorough clean. This is the only time of the month where they aren’t in full use. So, clean, oil, and polish them so they will be ready right in time for spring gardening. - Collect dry, fallen leaves for mulch.
If you are fond of using organic fertilizer, then winter is the best season yet to stock up on all the dry leaves and grass you can add to your compost pile. Ask your neighbor for their dry leaves if there’s not enough on your yard. - Decorate your barren garden and highlight your perennials.
Make the outdoor atmosphere festive with some Christmas lights and holiday icons hanging from the bare branches of your trees and shrubs. Attach some candy canes, snowmen or angels that glow in the dark on the sides of your hedges and rows to light up dark winter nights and leave a smile on each passerby.
