As we step into the holiday season, it’s a great time to prepare your garden for the cooler weather and get creative with gifts inspired by your backyard bounty. This inaugural newsletter is packed with helpful tips, inspiration, and exciting news about giving the ultimate gift of a garden this season. Let’s dig in!
December Garden Checklist
December is an important month to prepare your garden for the cooler months ahead. Start by removing dead plants and debris to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold. Prune shrubs and deadhead flowers that aren’t winter bloomers to keep your garden tidy. Feed your soil by adding compost or organic fertilizers, ensuring it’s ready for winter crops. Protect tender plants by covering them with frost cloth if a cold snap is expected. Finally, adjust your irrigation schedule to account for cooler days with less water demand.
Gifts from the Garden
This season, let your garden inspire thoughtful and unique gifts for everyone on your list. For him, consider creating a DIY herbal beard oil by combining jojoba oil with rosemary, cedarwood, and lavender essential oils. Package it in an amber glass bottle for a polished presentation. For her, try making a lavender sugar scrub by mixing equal parts sugar and coconut oil, then adding dried lavender buds and a touch of vanilla extract. For kids, painted garden rocks are a fun and creative gift idea; smooth stones painted as ladybugs or with inspiring garden quotes are sure to bring smiles.
Of all the gifts, the best idea is to give the gift of a raised garden bed. It’s a present that keeps on giving, offering the recipient the joy of growing their own herbs, vegetables, or flowers.
What to Plant This Month
December is an ideal time to plant cool-season vegetables such as carrots, beets, kale, lettuce, and spinach. These crops thrive in the cooler weather. Additionally, herbs like cilantro, parsley, dill, thyme, and rosemary can be planted now to enhance your culinary creations.
December in Central Florida
Central Florida enjoys average high temperatures of 73°F and low temperatures around 52°F during December. Rainfall is typically moderate, averaging about 2.2 inches, making it a manageable month for outdoor gardening activities.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the smell of soil after rain, known as petrichor, is created by an oil produced by plants and a compound called geosmin released by soil bacteria? This refreshing aroma is not only invigorating but also a sign of healthy, thriving soil.
Garden Quote of the Month
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn
Wrap-Up: The Gift of a Raised Garden Bed
Imagine gifting a loved one a raised garden bed—a present that keeps on giving! Whether for fresh herbs, vegetables, or beautiful blooms, it’s the perfect way to encourage someone’s gardening journey. Join my waiting list at www.steppingstonegc.com to reserve yours today!
About Me
Hi, I’m Larissa, founder of Stepping Stone Garden Coach. As a passionate gardener and certified coach, I’m here to help you grow your dream garden with confidence. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your green space, my goal is to make gardening simple, enjoyable, and rewarding.
Need expert help designing, planning, or planting a garden? I’m here for you. Let’s create something beautiful together. Visit me at www.steppingstonegc.com to get started.
Thank you for joining the Stepping Stone Garden Coach community. Here’s to a season filled with growth, joy, and garden-inspired giving. See you next month!
Warmly,
Larissa