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Keep on top of trees and shrubs

By Sally - Silversurfer's Editor Dec 9, 2013

You may not want to be working outside at this time of year, but luckily there’s not a lot to do.

Trees and shrubs do need a fair bit of attention though, with pruning a good idea as you can better see what you’re doing when the trees have no leaves. Evergreens are best left until spring, while the Prunus species (e.g. ornamental cherries, plums and almonds) are vulnerable to silver leaf when pruned in autumn or winter. Take care not to damage the tree when sawing off thicker branches. Ensure any pruning of Acer and Betula is completed before the end of the year to avoid bleeding of sap from cuts.

Still plenty to harvest

There is an abundance of vegetables to harvest in December, including beetroot, turnips, celery and cabbage. Parsnips taste better when frosted. Make sure to mark the trench, and cover it with a protective layer of cardboard if hard frosts are forecast. And stake or earth up any Brussels sprouts stalks that look leggy and vulnerable to wind rock.

Membership offer

Not already a member of the RHS? Join from just £39 and start enjoying free garden visits, personalised advice and discounted shows tickets.

Enjoy a Christmas lunch at Hyde Hall

Why not treat yourself to a delicious Christmas lunch at RHS Garden Hyde Hall? Enjoy a home-cooked Christmas lunch with two-courses costing just £26.95 (RHS Members £21.95) or three-courses £28.95 (RHS Members £23.95). This includes all day entry to the Garden so why not get together with friends and family and make a day of it?

Christmas plants, presents and preparation

Listen to our festive podcast, in which our horticultural experts give their suggestions on gifts for gardeners, how to choose and care for Christmas plants including Amaryllis, poinsettias, hyacinths and Christmas trees, and how to create a stunning wreath from your own garden. Plus as always, the Wisley gardening team is on hand to suggest jobs that you can be doing now in your own gardens. And we have the latest news on events across our four RHS gardens.

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Sally - Silversurfer's Editor

Mother of three grown-up daughters and a proud grandma too, I am the ultimate multi-tasker and am passionate about my role as Silversurfers Website Editor and Social Media Manager. Always on the lookout for all things that will interest and entertain our community. Fueling fun for the young at heart!

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