Kathi Mecham
University of Missouri Extension (660) 542-1792 mechamk@missouri.edu
Published: November 23, 2020
Finish planting spring flowering bulbs that did not get planted last month! They can be planted until the ground freezes.
Be sure the root zones of azaleas and rhododendrons are thoroughly mulched. Organic material from oak leaves, shredded oak bark, or pine needles are preferred.
Prune hollies now. Trimmings may be used in holiday decorations and last longer during the holidays if kept at cooler temperatures.
Check stored summer bulbs, dahlia tuberous roots and gladiolus corms regularly. If they start to shrivel, they are too dry. Place them in a container with potting soil, peat moss, or sawdust to stop the loss of water. If they are sprouting, place them in a cooler spot. Moldy or damaged roots must be removed and discarded. Molding indicates over-moist conditions.
Mulch perennial borders after ground freezes to a depth of 2 to 3 inches.
Geraniums can be overwintered. They like bright light and cool temperatures. Keep soils on the dry side.
Water houseplants with room temperature water. Cold tap water may shock plants.
Phalaenopsis orchids and holiday cactus benefit from cooler temperatures next to a window or in a cool room to trigger flowering.
Save cylinders from holiday wrapping paper for making biodegradable cutworm collars in the spring. Cut cylinders into 3-inch tubes to fit over transplants.
Reflect on last season's vegetable garden and start thinking about what you would like to change for next year. Make sure to write it down. Consider using a garden journal. See guide From Seed to Harvest and Beyond: Garden Journal and Calendar https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/mp928
Store leftover vegetable and flower seed in cool, dry storage. The refrigerator is good. Do not store in the freezer—some seed varieties will not survive!
Check vegetables in storage for spoilage.
Clean up any left-over dead plant debris in the garden.
Wrap the trunks of fruit trees with chicken wire or hardware cloth to prevent rabbit damage.
Mulch strawberries with a layer of straw to prevent winter damage to the crowns and prevent soil heaving. Straw should be sifted loosely over the plants, just enough to cover them from view. After the straw settles, check to see if more straw is needed.
Pecans continue to fall after periods of wind.
Prevent frost cracking or sunscald on trunks by wrapping trunks with tree wrap. Many fruit trees are especially susceptible.
Store leftover garden chemicals where they will stay dry, unfrozen, and out of reach of children and pets.
Do filling and grading around the yard. The loose soil will settle during the cold months.
Seed catalogs start to arrive. If you are longing for spring, start making wish lists and orders. Otherwise, put them all together for a time when you are dreaming of spring!
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