Calloway's Timely Tips for December

Timely Tips for December

Gardening is an excellent escape during the holidays. Now is a good time to plant trees and shrubs so they can develop a strong root system for next spring. Cool weather color such as Pansies, Snapdragons, Flowering Cabbage and Kale add splashes of color to your landscape. Spring flowering bulbs can be planted now once they have been properly chilled.

Prune summer flowering shrubs and vines now. They will bloom on new growth. Remember-do not top your Crape Myrtles! Simply prune to remove seed heads and shape. Trim evergreens only to reshape.

Prepare for the cold weather before it hits! One of the best things you can do for your landscape plants is to provide a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch. Mulching is necessary year round but during the colder periods it provides a layer of insulation for the roots. Secondly, water your landscape well before a cold spell. A drought stressed plant is more susceptible to freeze damage. Thirdly, for more tender plants, purchase frost cloth for extra protection. Frost cloth is a fabric which adds 3 to 4 degrees of warmth. Cover the plant completely allowing the edges to come all the way to the ground. We are utilizing the heat which radiates from the ground.

This is also a great time to start planning changes or additions to your landscape. Bring a sketch or photo and let our Calloway’s Texas Certified Nursery Professionals assist you!