Gardening Calendar

December

• On cold nights, move houseplants back from icy windows to prevent chilling injury.

• Overwintering geraniums like bright light and cool temperatures. Keep soils on the dry side.

• Water houseplants with tepid water. Cold tap water may shock plants.

• Be sure the root zones of azaleas and rhododendrons are thoroughly mulched. Any organic material will do, but mulches made from oak leaves, shredded oak bark, or pine needles are preferred.

• Hairspray works well to keep seed heads and dried flowers intact on wreaths and arrangements.

• Holiday Poinsettia basics:
  • sun for at least half the day
  • keep away from drafts, registers & radiators.
  • night temperatures in 50’s or low 60’s, days at 70 degrees.
  • the soil should dry only slightly between thorough waterings. Discard the drainage.
  • be sure to punch holes in decorative foil wraps to prevent soggy soil conditions.

• Clean and oil all garden hand tools before storing for winter.

• Apply mulches to bulbs, perennials and other small plants once the ground freezes.

• If you feed rabbits corn or alfalfa, they may leave fruit tree bark unharmed.

• Don’t forget to renew your subscription to Missouri Environment and Garden.