Garden Calendar: December

The Pacific Northwest settles into its annual December gloom, where daylight becomes a rare find behind the clouds or distant mountains. As temperatures flutter around freezing, mulch becomes a savior, shielding tender roots.

Despite the lull in landscape work, the garden offers its own delights. Architectural tree lines, vivid seed pods, and hints of winter flowers dot the scenery. And with the new year peeking around the corner, longer days whisper of the upcoming growing season.

Here are some suggestions for December gardeners:

-Take a stroll around your garden, noting tasks and checking for storm-damaged branches. Embrace this vulnerable phase for clarity, knowing that spring will bring vibrant growth.

-If weather permits, consider hardscaping projects like placing rocks, constructing walls or building paths—tasks DreamForge Contractors can help with.

-Continue caring for birds by providing shelter, cleaning feeders, and maintaining a hygienic environment. Involve gloves, wash hands after, and occasionally disinfect feeders.

-Get festive by creating decorations from conifer branches and evergreen shrubs. It's a fun family activity using garden treasures.

This season, while the garden rests, take a moment to cherish the subtle beauty of winter and the resilience it holds. Beneath the frost, the groundwork for a vibrant spring garden quietly awaits.