Protect holiday plants like amaryllis from drafts and cold windows.December isn't burdened by a lot of "shoulds" in the garden. It's your choice whether to sit and read by the fire or go out and clip greenery to make holiday decorations. Here are a few things to keep on your radar:
• Spread ash from the fireplace on your garden plots, but no more than 1-1/2 pounds per 100 square feet per year.
• Keep turning that compost pile. And spread compost on garden while many plants are down and you can see the soil. Don't get too close to the base of trees and shrubs.
• If you've been feeding the birds, don't stop now.
• Keep holiday plants, such as poinsettia and amaryllis, away from drafts and cold windows. Give them bright light, let them dry out between watering and feed with houseplant fertilizer.
• Check stored bulbs for signs of rot. Throw away damaged ones.
• Don't forget to water stored fuchsias and geraniums about once a month.
• Water plants under eaves or in other sheltered spots where rain doesn't reach.
• Stake new shrubs or trees planted in windy areas.
• Shop nurseries for plants with winter interest.
• Clean, oil and store garden tools if you haven't already.
• Empty garden hoses, roll them up and store. Wrap pipes and faucets to keep them from freezing and bursting.
• Spring bulbs often go on sale in mid-November. You can still plant them.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
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