December in Bedford brings a quiet stillness to the garden, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. While most outdoor tasks are limited by freezing temperatures, this month offers a chance to care for your winter garden, plan for the year ahead, and embrace seasonal creativity.
Essential December Gardening Tasks
- Protect Perennials: Double-check mulching around perennials and shrubs. A thick blanket of mulch insulates roots against deep freezes and shifting temperatures.
- Check Stored Bulbs and Tubers: If you’ve stored tender bulbs like dahlias or canna lilies, inspect them for rot or mold. Discard any that are soft or discolored.
- Inspect Trees and Shrubs: After a heavy snowfall or windstorm, gently brush snow off branches to prevent breakage and trim any damaged limbs.
- Feed the Birds: Set up or maintain bird feeders. Not only do birds add life to a winter garden, but they also help control pests year-round.
- Plan Next Season’s Garden: Browse seed catalogs and begin sketching plans for your spring garden. Consider rotating crops and expanding pollinator-friendly plantings.
DIY Holiday Garden Décor
Bring the spirit of the season outdoors with nature-inspired decorations. Use pinecones, evergreen clippings, dried citrus slices, or red dogwood branches to create festive porch pots, wreaths, or garlands. These elements add charm while reflecting the winter beauty of your Bedford yard.
You can also gather cuttings from your garden for homemade centerpieces or table settings—think holly, boxwood, or ornamental grasses. Involve the family in a garden scavenger hunt for materials, making it a fun and festive tradition.
In Bedford, December gardening is less about growth and more about gratitude, protection, and preparation. With a bit of intention and imagination, your garden can remain a source of joy even in the quietest season.
