What to do in the Garden: December - Coolings Garden Centre, Kent & Sussex

1st December 2025

As the year draws to a close and the garden enters its quietest phase, December offers the perfect opportunity to tidy, maintain and prepare for the seasons ahead. Although growth has slowed and many plants are dormant, there are still plenty to keep gardeners busy.

If time is limited in the garden this month, here are Mark’s top tips:

1. Maintain and clean your garden tools

2. Give roses a light winter prune to prevent wind rock

3. Insulate your pots and containers from frost

4. Tidy Acers and other deciduous trees

5. Protect tender plants by covering with fleece, bubble-wrap or bring indoors

6. Put up nest boxes and clean and replenish bird feeders

7. Plan your garden for the year ahead

8. Early December is your last chance to plant tulip bulbs

BEDS AND BORDERS

Although borders may look bare at this time of year, there is still important work to do. Clear away dead stems, annuals and any lingering weeds to keep beds tidy and reduce the risk of pests overwintering. Add a generous layer of compost or soil improver to protect soil structure and feed the microorganisms that will work beneath the surface all winter long.

If you have been experimenting with different types of mulch, as Arthur has in our trial beds, now is an excellent time to check on their condition. See how well each mulch is suppressing weeds, retaining moisture and breaking down into the soil. This review will help inform your mulching choices for spring and summer.

ROSES

Winter winds can loosen rose plants in the soil, so a light prune in December helps prevent “wind rock.” Trim back long or straggly stems to improve stability and airflow, reducing the risk of fungal problems such as Black Spot. The main prune should still be left until February, but this early tidy helps your roses remain healthy through the harshest weather.

Coolings grow 180 varieties of roses, including 55 varieties of David Austin Roses. Coolings Garden Centre at Wych Cross is our specialist rose centre with an outstanding range of quality plants.

TREES, ACERS & SHRUBS

With their leaves gone, Acer

s and many deciduous trees reveal their structure, making it the ideal time to carry out a light winter prune. Remove any crossing, rubbing or damaged branches and tidy growth that has encroached onto paths. This gentle shaping protects the tree from future damage and ensures a graceful, healthy outline for spring.

Coolings offer a wide selection of Acers, from delicate pot-friendly varieties to larger statement trees that provide structure and year-round interest.

December is also a useful time to check stakes, ties and supports on young or newly planted trees. Winter gales can cause loosened ties or rubbing, so adjust or replace them as needed.

POTS & TENDER PLANTS

December often brings the first sharp frosts, so take steps now to protect vulnerable plants. Move terracotta and stone pots – along with any non–frost-proof ornaments – into a shed, garage or greenhouse.

If they’re too large or heavy to move, wrap them with fleece or hessian for insulation. Raise pots onto ‘feet’ to improve drainage and help prevent the compost from freezing.

Move potte

d plants closer to walls or sheltered areas and use fleece or cloches to cover tender shrubs and young specimens. A simple layer of straw or leaves around the crown of borderline-hardy plants can make all the difference in preventing frost damage.

WILDLIFE

Winter is one of the toughest times of year for birds, so keeping feeders stocked is a sma

ll act that makes a big impact. Offer high-energy foods such as sunflower hearts, peanuts, suet cakes and fat balls. Clean feeders regularly to prevent disease and ensure a supply of fresh, unfrozen water.

Put up new nest boxes or clean existing ones – many birds use them for shelter long before spring. Supporting wildlife now builds a stronger natural ecosystem in your garden for the year ahead.

TOOLS & GREENHOUSE CARE

Winter is the perfect season to show your tools some attention. Clean, sharpen and oil secateurs, shears, loppers and spades so they’re ready for action in spring. Check handles, fixings and blades to en

sure everything is safe and comfortable to use.

If you have a greenhouse, keep it tidy and well ventilated on mild days. Clear away dead leaves, old compost and debris to reduce pests and diseases. Check heaters and insulation to ensure tender plants remain frost-free.

PLAN FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

December is a wonderful time to reflect on the year in the garden. Consider what thrived this year, what struggled and what new ideas you might try in the coming season. Whether you’re developing a new border, refreshing a patio display, or planning a productive vegetable plot, taking stock now helps you start the new year with fresh inspiration and purpose.