Things to Do in December
- WEED OUT "WEED" TREES and SHRUBS - "Weed" trees and
shrubs
compete with desirable plants for light, water and nutrients.
Among prolifically seeding plants are oak, elm, hackberry, plum,
and ligustrum. They're easier to remove while still young.
- CARE OF BALLED-AND-BURLAPPED PLANTS AFTER PURCHASE
- When
transplanting "B&B" plants, lift by the ball of soil; don't use
the trunk or stems as a handle because the soil will break away
from the roots. A B&B plant should be kept watered to prevent
drying out during the period before it is planted. If it cannot
be planted immediately, "heel in" plants temporarily. "Heeling
in" means digging a trench, laying the plants at a 45 degree
angle, and placing soil over the root ball. Water well. This
system provides more even soil moisture within the ball and
prevents the root system from freezing during low temperature
periods.
- SPRING FLOWERING BULBS - REMINDER - If you have not
planted those spring flowering bulbs, better get at it, and
always plant quality bulbs. Larger bulbs produce larger flowers.
Pansy plants set among bulbs will produce a fine effect, and
won't harm the bulbs a bit.
- TREAT HOLIDAY GREENS - Anti-desiccants, used to
prevent
cold damage to shrubs, also are useful in preventing the
quick-drying of cut greens used in Christmas decorations. Any
greens that are not used with their stems in water (such as
wreaths, garlands, swags) will last longer if they are sprayed
with one of the anti-desiccants like Wilt-Pruf.
- WINTER DAMAGE TO PLANTS - Winter damage results
from
dessication (drying), freezing, and breakage. Keep plants
watered during dry periods. Build a cage around a specimen plant
and fill the cage with leaves. See "Cumberland County
Weather and Our Plants".
- CLEAN BIRD FEEDERS MONTHLY with hot sudsy water to
prevent
the spread of wild bird diseases.
- BUY YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE EARLY! By following these
suggestions, you can reduce the risk of a fire hazard in the
home:
- a. Keep the tree in a shady location outdoors or in an
unheated room.
- b. Re-cut the butt of the tree making a new avenue for water
entry.
- c. Place the butt in a container of water and maintain the
water level until bringing indoors for decorating. While indoors,
keep watered at all times.
- d. The tree needs only fresh water; additives are of little
or no value.
- CONSIDER GIVING A GOOD GARDENING BOOK or ACCESSORY AS A
CHRISTMAS GIFT!
Last revised April 6, 1998
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