December marks the beginning of winter gardening and the spirit of the holidays together. It’s the season for caring for evergreens, maintaining healthy houseplants, and adding color to your home with holiday cactus,  holiday bulbs, and Christmas trees. It’s also the perfect time to visit our Christmas Shop, which is stocked with fresh décor, glittering ornaments, and gifts for everyone on your list.

Read on for more information about your winter garden and download our Top 10 Gardening Tips for December here!

Simple Steps to Maintain a Healthy Winter Garden

A little care goes a long way in early winter. If we reach the end of the month without significant rain or snow, give your landscape a deep watering. Broadleaf evergreens also appreciate support at this time of year. A monthly coat of Wilt Stop helps their leaves stay full and hydrated through the cold stretch.

Voles remain active in winter, so move your Kaput bait if you notice it isn’t being touched. Keep the area under bird feeders clean to reduce their attractiveness. And if you’ve been chilling bulbs for winter blooms, December is the time to pot them so they’re ready to bloom in late winter.

If you garden in areas with alkaline soil, Dr. Iron brings back deep green color and supports stronger foliage as we move toward spring.

Holiday Houseplants That Shine in December

Download our Holiday Cactus Guide!

Holiday cactus is one of the most dependable bloomers of the season. These plants flourish with long nights, cooler air, and a short period of reduced watering. Keep the plant steady while buds are forming, as movement can cause bud drop. Once the flowers open, maintain the soil lightly moist and you’ll enjoy their vibrant blooms!

If your home is decorated with poinsettias, keep them away from cold windows and vents. Light watering and stable indoor temperatures help them retain their color well beyond the holidays.

Houseplants need support in winter, too. A slow-release fertilizer works well this time of year, and extending the time between waterings helps prevent issues like fungus gnats.

Download our Caring For Houseplants Guide!

Amaryllis and Paperwhites: Holiday Favorites

Amaryllis and paperwhites bring instant life to the home in winter. Their timing makes them popular gifts and simple projects for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Amaryllis grows from a large, impressive bulb that produces tall, striking blooms in reds, whites, and pinks. They thrive in bright indoor light and only need occasional watering until they start to grow. Once the flowers open, they stay eye-catching for weeks, making them a popular holiday centerpiece.

Paperwhites provide a clean, elegant appearance and are easy to grow. Many gardeners “force” them to bloom indoors by planting them in shallow containers filled with pebbles or soil. Their star-shaped white flowers bloom quickly and emit fragrance during the winter months.

Both bulbs are perfect for those who want color during the darkest stretch of the season.

Join Us for a Live Planting Demonstration – December 6, 1–2 PM

David is hosting a hands-on demonstration on planting and caring for both amaryllis and paperwhites. If you want guidance on choosing bulbs, potting mixes, watering schedules, or how to time your blooms for the holidays, this is a great chance to learn from an expert.

It’s a friendly, approachable session designed for gardeners of all levels. You’ll walk away with practical steps you can use immediately at home. This event is free.

Choosing a Christmas Tree: Living and Fresh-Cut Options

Download our Living Christmas Trees Guide!

Living Christmas trees add something special to the holidays. Water the root ball thoroughly before bringing the tree inside, and check moisture weekly. Use cool or twinkle lights to protect the branches and keep the tree indoors for no more than 10 to 14 days. After Christmas, move it outside when temperatures are mild and plant it on a good day. Continue watering every few weeks through winter to help it settle in.

If you prefer a fresh-cut tree, it’s a sustainable choice. Farm-grown trees clean the air as they grow, and cities recycle them into mulch for trails and gardens.

Step Into the Christmas Shop

December is when the Christmas Shop truly shines. The store is filled with wreaths, garlands, ornaments, tabletop trees, and festive displays. It’s a warm, inviting place to browse, pick up gifts, and enjoy the season.

If you’re choosing a living tree, holiday cactus, amaryllis, paperwhites, or evergreens, our staff can help you find the right match and share helpful care tips. Greenhouse Garden Center is a bright stop during the month, whether you’re decorating for the holidays or exploring ideas for your winter garden.