As the year draws to a close and winter settles in, December may feel like a quiet month for gardening—but there’s still plenty you can do to protect your outdoor space and prepare it for a strong start in spring. Whether you’re maintaining beds and borders, caring for your lawn, or ensuring your tools are ready for the new year, a little attention now will pay off greatly in a few months’ time.

At CG Garden Services, we help homeowners across Eastbourne and the surrounding areas keep their gardens healthy and well-maintained all year round. Here are the key gardening jobs to tackle this December.

Protect Plants from Frost

December temperatures can drop sharply overnight. Tender plants, young shrubs, and potted specimens are especially vulnerable.

• Move pots to sheltered spots or into greenhouses.

• Use fleece, hessian, or cloches to protect delicate growth.

• Mulch around the base of plants to insulate roots.

Clear Fallen Leaves and Winter Debris

A layer of wet leaves left on paths, patios, or lawns can become slippery and damage grass.

• Rake or blow leaves off the lawn regularly.

• Add leaves to your compost heap or create leaf mould.

• Clear gutters, drains, and pathways to prevent winter blockages.

Prune Dormant Trees and Shrubs

Many deciduous trees and shrubs are best pruned in winter while they are dormant.

• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.

• Shape shrubs like roses to encourage healthy growth in spring.

• Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs now, as you may remove next season’s buds.

Prepare Garden Beds for Winter

Your beds may not be bursting with colour, but good preparation now ensures healthy soil later.

• Remove old annuals and weeds.

• Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

• Lay down mulch to protect roots and improve soil structure.

Look After the Lawn

Grass grows slowly during winter but still needs some care.

• Keep it clear of leaves and debris.

• Avoid walking on frosty grass to prevent damage.

• If the weather is mild, trim edges for a tidy finish.

Maintain Garden Tools and Equipment

December is the perfect time to clean, sharpen, and oil your tools.

• Service lawnmowers and strimmers.

• Clean and disinfect shears and secateurs.

• Store equipment somewhere dry to prevent rust.

Bring Winter Colour into the Garden

Not all winter gardening is maintenance—some of it is about enjoyment!

• Plant winter-flowering favourites like hellebores, cyclamen, and pansies.

• Add evergreen shrubs for structure and year-round colour.

• Use pots and containers to brighten entrances and patios.

Need Help With Your December Garden Tasks?

If you’d like assistance preparing your garden for winter—or want ongoing maintenance throughout the colder months—CG Garden Services is here to help. We provide reliable, professional gardening support across Eastbourne and the surrounding areas.

Contact us today to book your winter garden care.