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___ Spread a liberal layer of pine straw or wood mulch around semi-hardy or tender shrubs, trees, or perennials, such as Palms, Banana Trees, and Elephant Ears to insulate the root systems from the colder temperatures.

___ Contrary to popular belief, December, and in fact the entire winter season, is a great time to plant most any shrubs,trees, or groundcovers. Winter planting of most dormant shrubs and trees allows them acclimate to their new environment before receiving the huge benefit from an early-Spring root flush, when soil temperatures begin to warm up. There is absoulutely no danger at all from planting most shrubs and trees in December. Our landscapers successfully plant through the entire winter! SEE: Plant Files

___ If there are some shrubs or small trees that you would like to transplant/relocate in the landscape, the winter dormant season is a good time to do so. How do we know plants have gone dormant? When all the leaves have fallen from the trees we know the dormant season is here. Before digging up the shrub or tree to be transplanted dig the hole for its new location. When digging up the shrub or small tree to be transplanted, make sure to start as far away from the main trunk as possible as this will retain more of the root system. Outside the branch-tip line is recommended. Try to keep as many roots intact as possible as this will reduce transplant shock. Transplant to new location as quickly as possible. When transplanting mix Claycutter Soil Ammendment at a 50/50 ratio with the soil dug from the hole. After backfilling, lightly tamp down freshly backfilled soil to remove air pockets. Then apply Root Stimulator and prune back the shrub or tree by approximately 1/3 its height. Water in wellwith a solution of Root Stimulator, mulch with pinestraw or wood mulch, and stake if necessary. Note: Some plants, such as conifers and junipers, simply do not transplant well.

___ Consider purchasing a container grown Christmas tree this year that can be planted in your landscape in the New Year!

___ Fertilize Pansies. Fertilize your Pansies that were planted earlier in the Fall with Pansy Booster every 4-6 weeks for best bloom production and overall performance.

___ Heavy pruning of shrubs and trees can be done at this time. Caution: Do Not prune Spring flowering shrubs or trees such as Azaleas and Forsythias (Yellow Bells) until later on in the Spring when they have finished blooming. Caution: Do Not prune Lantanas until new growth begins to emerge later on in Spring. SEE: Pruning Instructions

___ Collect fallen leaves to add to your compost pile or bin. SEE: Making a Compost Pile or Bin

___ If you would like to have a landscape design drawn for all or part of your property now is a good time. Landscape desgns make a great Christmas Gift! Visit WilsonBrosLandscape.com or call the nursery to schedule an appointment. 770-954-9862

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SEE: January Garden Tips of the Month