DECEMBER GARDEN "TO DO" LIST
GENERAL GARDEN CARE
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If it snows avoid using salt-based de-icing products in or around garden areas.
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Shovel snow before it freezes on sidewalks and sprinkle sand on sidewalks for traction.
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When shoveling, try to distribute snow equally on garden plants instead of piling it all against foundation planting or in the root zone of only one tree.
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Maintain a supply of water for the birds.
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Clean and refill bird feeders.
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Ice accumulation on tree branches should be left to melt.
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Immediately prune back branches damaged by snow and ice.
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For heavy snows, remove snow loads from evergreens by gently sweeping snow off with a broom.
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Continue to monitor rodent and animal damage on plantings in yard.
ANNUAL AND PERENNIALS:
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LIGHT pruning of deciduous trees and shrubs can be done this month.
LAWN CARE
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Continue mowing @ 2 inches until the grass is almost dormant then last cut should be quite short. This helps reduce snow mold fungus.
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Fungus can also develop if excess garden debris and fallen leaves are left on grass over winter.
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Avoid walking on frozen grass because it breaks the blades and mats down turf.
INDOOR GARDEN
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Monitor plants for insect problems.
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Choosing your Christmas Tree:
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Choose trees with firm needles that do not drop off.
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The bottom stump should be moist with some sap.
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Balsam and White Fir; red, white, Scot pines & Douglas Fir retain Needles the longest.
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Cut an additional 2 inches off the stump and plunge in warm water.
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Keep stand full of water. It can take up as much as a gallon/day.
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Dry trees are fire hazards.
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