For many in Colorado, December’s cold weather offers a great excuse to huddle indoors next to a warm fireplace. However, for the Colorado gardener, December is also the time for specific garden and landscaping tasks. Here is the checklist for making the most of your landscape during this festive, yet chilly month.
Source: The Garden Consultants, Inc. via Houzz
Repair hardscape features
By December, many plants have died or have gone dormant. Furthermore, arbors and trellises that were once covered are now exposed. Therefore, this is a convenient time to repair broken slats and beams.
Also, check your walkways for broken pavers and other safety issues. Fallen leaves or snow covering a walkway can hide these problems and create a tripping hazard.
Source: Janet Paik via Houzz
Prune evergreens and decorate for the season
Shape up your evergreens and keep them healthier by pruning them. December is a great time for this as most will be dormant or partially dormant. Save the trimmings for wreaths, table centerpieces and other seasonal decorations.
Source: Kaufman Construction Design and Build via Houzz
Add mulch
Landscape maintenance is a year-round activity and mulching plants is a vital part of this process, especially in fall and winter. Even if mulch was applied in autumn, you should check it in December to make sure it has not blown away or lost depth. Mulch should be at least between 3 to 5 inches deep to offer the best protection for your plants.
Source: Studio AB via Houzz
Maintain your walkways
Prevent guests from slipping on icy walkways. Use sand on concrete and special de-icing chemicals on wood or tile.
Source: Paintbox Garden via Houzz
Add hardy trees and shrubs
Hardy shrubs and trees can be planted any time of the year. If your landscape is lacking winter charm, adding these can bring new life and added visual interest. If you do not want to add them right now, make a note to yourself of the areas in which you wish to plant them in the future.
For professional advice and assistance with your December landscaping needs, contact Lifescape at 303.831.8310. We provide year-round landscape and gardening services, including maintenance, planting, architecture and construction.
