Recommended tasks and hints for December

• Feed the birds in cold weather and don’t allow ponds and bird baths to freeze over.

• Continue winter digging incorporating organic matter.

• Clean paths, repair sheds and fences.

• Prune woody ornamental plants, fruit trees and bushes.

• Prune tall bush roses to guard against wind rock.

• Cut autumn raspberries back to ground level.

• Plant out bare-root shrubs, roses and trees and keep them well watered so the roots can spread and establish.

• If you’ve been forcing bulbs for an indoor display then now is the time to bring them inside to a well-lit, cool spot.

• Stake or earth up your sprout plants to prevent damage caused by wind rock.

• Keep off the grass in frosty weather. Black footprints do not look good!

• Insulate garden taps and any exposed pipes.