December Landscaping Tips

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If you’re in the Southeast like we are, you know how unpredictable the weather can be (especially this time of year). It might be snowing one day and 70 degrees and sunny the next! While the weather can be unpredictable, it’s still best to be consistent with your landscape maintenance – yes, even in the Winter! Here are some garden-related chores to tackle this month:

• Continue to mulch leaves from your lawn. Mulching leaves is much better for your yard – and the environment – than raking. Shredding up leaves enriches the soil as they break down, supports insects like butterflies and moths that overwinter in the leaf litter, and saves time (and your back!). While you can buy a leaf mulcher, it could save you time and money to simply run over the leaves with your lawnmower to chop them up!

• Plant shade trees, fruit trees and evergreen shrubs. While you can often continue planting even after the snow falls, some days might feel too cold for that. Get a head start this December before you freeze your fingers off! So, get a head start this December before you freeze your fingers off. Not sure what plants would go best in your yard? Check out our previous blog post all about native trees to plant this fall. If you’re still unsure or have more questions, reach out to us or visit our store in downtown Nashville. We’re happy to help!

• Plant tulip, hyacinth, grape hyacinth, and daffodil bulbs. Most people think of Spring and Summer as the times to plant. While these floral beauties bloom in the Spring, it’s important to plant them during the optimal window, which is about six weeks before hard frost freezes the ground. Need tips on planting bulbs? Check out our bulb-planting blog!

• Relocate established plants, and continue planting balled and burlapped trees and shrubs. This is the ideal time to move and plant trees and shrubs — they’ve gone dormant until Spring, which minimizes the risk of stunting their growth. Additionally, consider making a sustainable choice by repurposing your live Christmas tree after the holidays. Many cities, including Nashville, offer tree drop-off locations where the trees are repurposed, either as mulch or as habitats for fish in local lakes. 

• Provide food and water to your area’s Wintering birds. Some common birds that stick it out for Tennessee Winters are the American Robin, Blue Jay, Song Sparrow, and many more. Depending on the bird, they may enjoy seeds, nuts, mealworms, and a host of other foods. Take a look at the birds in your area and research what foods are most enjoyed by the birds you want to attract. If you have children or grandchildren, feeding the birds could be a fun activity to do together over the holidays.

Most importantly, sit back and enjoy the holiday season! Let your lawn take a breather while you spend quality time with loved ones. Once Spring rolls around, you’ll reap the rewards of your hard work. Plus, you’ll be the envy of your neighbors as your healthy, well-cared-for yard and garden spring to life, getting a head start on the growing season!

If you’re ready for a landscape makeover, or want help with a seasonal clean-up or keeping your yard looking beautiful year-round, book a consultation with us!