LANDSCAPE SPECIALISTS
Copyright Landscape Specialists 2003 - 2011
http://www.GoodFolksToMow.com


December Things To Do:
(Pacific Northwest)

Inspect woody plants for
*     cankers and swollen area's
*     damaged and crossing branches
*     dead, off-color, leaves and twigs
*     guy wires that need to be loosened or removed 

Lawns:
*     Keep leaves raked off of lawn area's
*     fix drainage problems  
*     protect hose bibs from freezing
         
Beds:
*     Routine cleanup

*     Some herbaceous plants continue to receive nourishment and
*     protection from cold weather from its dying leaves and stems.
*     You can remove anything that comes out with a light tug.

*     divide rhubarb 

*     Add mulch to beds if needed.  
*     Mulch can protect soil from compaction and erosion due to rain -
*     Mulch can help keep weeds suppressed.
*     Mulch can help protect sensitive plants against cold damage
*     Compost, leaves, and moss-as-ground cover - are effective soil builders

*     Cedar Grove Compost is a good choice for planting beds
*     Small nugget bark, or cedar wood chips, are good in open shrub beds

*     If your grounds generate a lot of pruning debris, a small chipper can 
*     be used on site to make your own mulch - and save dump fee's.
*     Larger branches (over 2.5") can be used for kindling and firewood

*     Leaves can be left in beds unless or until they are deemed unsightly -  
*     Leaves are an effective mulch - especially on otherwise bare slopes 

Miscellaneous:

*     Try a flamer to control newly emerging weeds, and moss on hardscapes. 
*     The flamer should just lightly scorch - not burn to a crisp
*     Emerging lawn weeds can also  be lightly flamed  
 
*     "Worry Free" moss killer for hardscapes is a relatively safe product to use
*     on roofs and walkways.
*
*     Even after killing moss on hardscapes, it may be nescessary to pressure 
*     wash if it remains a slipping hazard or unsightly. 
    
*     In some cases a high-pressure hose nozzle may work to dislodge moss.
  
*     Theoretically the dead moss weathers away, but it could take a while.
*     Killing the moss before pressure washing may minimize re-colonization.

*     Moss and accumulated debris on roofs significantly reduce its useful lifespan
*     Keep debris from accumulating on your roof and clear gutters and downspouts.
*     Remove debris from roofs gently - light sweeping or raking only- no pressure washing
*     Removing moss from cedar shake roofs is not recommended
*     Use chicken wire and wirecutters to make cylinder shaped screens for your downspouts.
 
*     Snow and ice - keep sand on hand for dangerous icy spots.