December. It’s the season of holiday joy — and in the garden, it also happens to be the darkest, wettest and muckiest time of the year. In other words … it’s not exactly straw-hat-and-shades weather.
We won’t lay a guilt trip, but there are still things you could be doing out there, if you’re so inclined.
Oregon State University Extension Service December garden calendar has a few ideas for tasks you could perform, including maintenance, cleanup, planting, propagation and pest management. (One of the best things not to do is walk on your lawn.)
One of the most critical issues is to watch for drainage problems in your yard. This is the best time of year to spot them. You can solve them with tilling, ditching, French drains, rain gardens and bioswales, but only if you’re aware of what’s happening.
And of course, there’s always indoor gardening. Your best chance to stay non-dark, non-wet and non-mucky.
Don’t forget the gardeners on your Christmas list! The start of the gardening season is just a few short months away, and there’s lots of ideas at your local garden center. The best idea may be the all-popular gift card, which assures they’ll get precisely what they want.
We have a statewide list of garden businesses, including info on who’s open this time of year. Some offer hot cider, and some offer holiday workshops and Christmas décor, including that time-honored Tannenbaum.
We wish you the merriest holiday season and a prosperous 2024.