December in the UK garden is quieter, calmer and beautifully atmospheric but it’s far from a month off. While growth slows, this is one of the best months to prepare your outdoor space for the year ahead. From essential winter tasks to big-picture planning, here’s your guide to what to do in the garden in December, especially for those based in London and the South East.
And if you’re dreaming of a new garden for spring or summer? December is the perfect time to start your garden design journey and this is where Soil Sisters, award-winning garden designers in London, can help.
1. Protect Tender Plants from Frost
London is mild compared to other parts of the UK, but frost still bites.
- Wrap tender plants like tree ferns, cannas and bananas in fleece.
- Move potted plants to sheltered spots.
- Mulch the base of shrubs to lock in warmth.
Design insight: When planning a new garden, Soil Sisters always consider microclimates — sunny walls, sheltered corners and wind tunnels — to ensure the right plants thrive in the right places.
2. Prune Back Late-Flowering Perennials
Cut back faded perennials such as rudbeckia, echinacea and asters.
Leave some seed heads standing for winter texture and wildlife.
Design insight: Good garden structure matters all year. Soil Sisters specialise in planting design that looks beautiful even in the quiet months, with evergreen anchors and winter interest.
3. Prepare Beds for Spring Planting
Clear fallen leaves, remove weeds and add compost or well-rotted manure. This simple December task sets the foundation for lush borders in spring.
Thinking about transforming your borders entirely?
Soil Sisters can redesign your planting scheme, choosing shrubs and perennials that provide colour, movement and seasonal balance.
4. Clean, Maintain and Sharpen Tools
A quick December job that makes a huge difference:
- Clean and oil tools
- Sharpen secateurs and shears
- Check and repair wooden handles
- Empty and wash pots for reuse
Design insight: Many Soil Sisters clients start the design process in December, meaning their new garden build is ready to begin the moment spring arrives — no delays, no missed planting windows.
5. Look After the Lawn
If the ground isn’t frozen:
- Gently rake away leaves
- Avoid walking on frosty grass
- Brush off worm casts
If you’re planning a new lawn layout, curved design or a wildflower meadow, winter is the best time to map it out. Soil Sisters creates CAD plans and 2D/3D visuals so you can “see” your new garden before the build starts.
6. Check Fences, Trellis and Structures
Winter winds can loosen panels or damage posts. December is a great month to tighten fixings, repair trellis and ensure pergolas or arches are sturdy.
Design insight: If you’re considering adding a pergola, decking or a contemporary seating zone, Soil Sisters can design bespoke structures that add height, drama and purpose to your space.
7. Feed Garden Birds
Food is scarce in December. Support wildlife by topping up feeders and breaking ice on bird baths.
A garden alive with birdsong is something we factor into all Soil Sisters garden designs, whether through habitat planting, berry-rich shrubs or water features.
8. Plan Your 2025 Garden Design Project
December is, without question, one of the best months to start planning your new garden design.
Here’s why:
- Designers’ diaries fill quickly from January onwards
- Winter site visits allow us to understand drainage, shade and structure
- You get ahead of spring contractor bookings
- Materials and planting can be reserved early
- Your new garden is ready for summer use
At Soil Sisters, we design gardens across London, Kent, Surrey and the South East, from modern city courtyards and roof gardens to large suburban family gardens. With over 30 years’ combined experience and Hampton Court Flower Show medal-winning expertise, we create spaces that feel personal, beautiful and built to last.
Ready to Transform Your Garden?
If you’re searching for a garden designer in London or the South East, Soil Sisters can help you:
- Reimagine your layout with professional 2D and 3D plans
- Redesign planting with a contemporary, seasonal palette
- Add seating areas, pergolas, meadows or wildlife features
- Create a garden that suits your lifestyle, space and budget
📩 Book a free initial consultation and start your garden journey this December.
Your dream garden for 2025 begins now.