December Checklist 2006

Here’s a checklist of things to do in the landscape in December:

• Evergreens can be trimmed gently for indoor holiday decorations.

• Store chemicals and other lawn and garden liquids in a cool, dry place, protected from freezing but away from heat.

• Protect shrubs from extensive snow loads by tying their stems together with twine. Carefully remove heavy snow loads with a broom so limbs don't break.

• Prevent the bark from splitting on young, thin-barked trees, such as fruit and maple, by wrapping trunks with tree wrap, or paint them with white latex paint, especially the south and southwest sides.

• Protect broadleaves, such as rhododendrons, and needle evergreens from excessive drying (desiccation) by winter sun and wind with canvas, burlap or polyethylene plastic screens on the south and west sides. Shields also may be used to protect plants from salt spray.

  Or you can protect these plants from excessive drying with an antidesiccant spray, available at garden centers and other retailers. Certain evergreens may become discolored or damaged by sprays, so always read and follow the label directions.