Monty Don shares the December gardening job to do now that he 'enjoys the most'

Monty Don bird in garden

Monty Don shared his December gardening advice

GETTY
Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 01/12/2023

- 15:35

Updated: 01/12/2023

- 15:36

Monty Don opened up on his favourite things to do in the garden as winter hits

Britons can take a step back in their gardens in December as there are fewer jobs that must be done.

Monty Don shared what he likes to do outside as the temperatures drop.


He suggested gardeners help to feed the birds by supplementing the supply of seeds and berries in the garden.

"I would say that one of the things I most enjoy about winter is watching the birds feed at the table outside our kitchen window," Monty wrote in his December blog.

Bird feeding

It is more difficult for wildlife to find food at this time of year

PA

He recommended using calorific food to feed the birds, such as seeds, nuts and fats.

Pastry, bread and cooked potatoes can also be used. Monty shared tips on ensuring the food is spread evenly and not eaten by the same birds.

The gardening expert added: "Another way of making sure that all the food does not get gobbled up by pigeons and starlings is to find an old log with lots of cracks and crevices and pour seed over it.

"The smaller birds will extract every last bit from the fissures that bigger ones cannot reach."

Experts at Woodland Trust agreed it is important to think of garden wildlife at this time of year.

They explained it is more difficult for animals to naturally come across food in the winter.

"Winter can be a difficult time for wildlife," the experts commented.

"Temperatures plummet and food becomes difficult to find. Insect-eating birds turn to alternative foods.

"Some species travel far and wide, and foraging behaviour adapts, but we can lend a helping hand by providing a welcome source of extra food for birds to turn to in leaner times."

Bird feed

Monty recommended leaving out food for birds

PA

While winter is a quieter time for gardeners, it is key to keep on top of your outdoor space.

Monty Don spoke of another gardening task that needs to be done at this time of year.

Now is a great time to prepare for 2024 by planting tulips to bloom in spring.

It is best to do this before the new year as the tulips are dormant now.

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