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December
Lawns:
Fertilize cool season
grasses during the winter moths. Annual and perennial ryegrass may still
be planted and are particularly useful to prevent erosion and stabilize
soil.
Annuals:
Add colorful, cold-hardy annual such as petunias and pansies to the
garden.
Perennials &
Bulbs: It's still
okay to plant bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and Dutch iris. It
is time to trim perennials that have finished blooming in your garden.
Cut back Autumn Joy Sedum, Mexican bush Sage, fall asters, and garden
mums within a few inches of the crown.
Vegetables &
Herbs: If the
soil is acidic, you could probably benefit from an application of lime.
The easiest form is pelletized lime. Broadcast using a spreader or
by hand. Always wear gloves, and distribute evenly. Because
lime takes a long time to react with the soil, winter applications help
the spring garden. Apply at the rate of 15 to 20 pds. per 1,000 square
feet.
Cleaning up the
garden will yield plenty of fallen leaves and plant debris for compost.
In an out of the way corner of the garden, mix green and dry materials
with a shovelful of soil and optional handful of manure. Sprinkle
with water weekly if there is no rain. You'll have compost by spring.
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