As the wintry weather sets in gardeners are often quick to protect their plants.
However, experts have warned against the common mistakes people make when tending to their plants in the colder weather.
Gardening specialists have issued advice on how to look after their flowers when they are exposed to rain, wind and icy conditions during December, revealing the “biggest” mistakes people make when attempting to help their plants.
According to the RHS, the most common seasonal tasks that green thumbs undertake include protecting pots, mulching and moving plants around, staking and working on shelters.
Now, despite plummeting temperatures and torrential rain showers not being ideal for gardens, two experts have shared their pearls of wisdom with the Guardian to help navigate the winter months.
Be wary of winter tidying
Gardening columnist Alice Vincent says: “One of the biggest winter gardening mistakes people make is tidying up their more structural perennials too early.
“Grasses and sculptural plants such as Phlomis russeliana, fennel, sedum, hydrangea and echinacea conjure magical shadow play in low winter sunlight and leave seeds for the birds. I wouldn’t touch them until late February at the earliest.”
Consider planting evergreens
Alice recommended using holly and ivy as well as Fatsia japonica as it will generate “drama” due to its large leaves. She also suggested using Clematis urophylla as it will flower on the “darkest days.”
Make sure your bulbs are planted
Bulbs are able to be planted all the way up until January. These are able to be protected by the use of a cloche.
Be mindful of windowsills
The Guardian’s houseplant expert explained how people with heavier curtains need to be mindful of the drop in temperature, which can impact your plants.
Don’t put your plants next to the radiator
Heat from radiators will likely dehydrate plants and opting for sunlight is always the best option.
Put away the watering can
Overwatering can result in something called root rot, a disease that can kill your plants.
The 12C rule
Succulents and cacti are at risk of dying in temperatures below 12C, therefore it is important to keep them in a warm area.
Hold off on fertiliser
Plants need to rest during the winter months which can be damaged by overfertilising. It is important to protect the grass too by not walking on it when frozen, as it can break and die.
