As the shortest day of the year fast approaches, we are sinking further into the depths of winter. Nature now assumes a quieter tone, making it an ideal time for pottering and perusing your kitchen garden’s framework, and pondering on the past year’s growth. The stillness and solace of the winter garden is sure to provide an antidote to the bling and business of the season.

Plant native hedges

If you intend to enclose your garden with a hedge, now until March is a good time to take action. Both your pocket and the plants will benefit from winter planting as bare root season is upon us. Bare root plants are cheaper than potted plants and are certainly easier to transport and faster to transplant.

Additionally, the use of peat substrate and plastic pots is avoided, making them the most environmentally friendly option. Trees, shrubs and hedging plants grow best when planted during the dormant season as it allows root systems to establish before the onset of spring. Planting a mixed native hedge to establish a boundary makes most sense for a whole host of reasons.

Native plants are well adapted and thrive in our climate whilst tying in with our natural heritage. Native hedges also provide food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife along with providing all year interest and beauty.

Hazel, hawthorn, guelder rose and spindle are just some of Ireland’s wonderful native hedging plants. Blackthorn and willow tend to be vigorous, so best not to include in the establishment stage. Hedgerows Ireland are a national organisation that address all aspects of hedgerows in Ireland, check out hedgerowsireland.org

Leaf mould

Last month’s balmy weather resulted in deciduous trees holding on to leaves a little longer than usual but now that most have dropped, it is time gather those fallen ones. While a scattering provides habitat for wildlife and will add an extra layer of mulch on garden beds, large piles of leaves on the lawn and pathways are undesirable. Collected leaves are perfect for making leaf mould, a rich, natural soil conditioner.

This action mimics the process that takes place in forest floors, where leaves fall to the ground and gradually rot down with the assistance of fungi.

A simple leaf mould container can be made with four wooden posts and chicken wire, ideally positioned under a deciduous tree, as this provides some overhead shelter whilst also catching fallen leaves. Pack as many leaves as you can into the container as the pile will rot down into a much smaller volume. Thoroughly dampen the pile as it encourages fungal breakdown.

Check the moisture level occasionally during dry periods, turning and adding water if necessary to speed up the breakdown process. If your site is not suitable for a wire leaf bin, use black bin bags instead. Make a few slits for air and fill bags full with moist leaves and tie securely. Best label bags for fear they get mistaken for rubbish and check occasionally, watering when required.

Leaves should take at least a year and a half, if not longer, to break down. The dark, crumbly, enriching soil conditioner makes a great top-dressing and is worth the wait.

Protect your plants

The worst of the winter weather is yet to come so it pays to be prepared. Cover any tender outdoor leafy winter crops like salad leaves, spinach and parsley with cloches or horticultural fleece to prolong their harvest season.

If a heavy spell of frost is forecast, lift all remaining root crops from the ground for storage or alternatively cover beds with a thick layer of mulch, such as straw.

Strong winter winds can damage plants, so check stakes and earth up winter brassicas to prevent damage from wind rock. Check all fruit tree stakes and ties to ensure they are intact and secure.

Container plants are most vulnerable with a high risk of the potting compost becoming waterlogged and frozen. This could potentially kill off even the hardiest of plants, so if space permits, lift potted herbs such as rosemary and lavender into a tunnel, conservatory, porch or garage. In very cold periods, it pays to wrap pots with fleece or bubble wrap for extra insulation.

Elevating containers off the ground using small pieces of wood or bricks will help to ensure adequate drainage.

Q&A: What Irish vegetables are still in season?

Plenty of vegetables are still in season. \iStock

I love making vegetable soup in the winter. What can I use that is still in season in Ireland? - Mary, Wexford

Despite the depths of winter, a surprisingly wide variety of vegetables are in season at this time of year giving no excuse not to enjoy a full range of Irish vegetables this festive season.

Here is a list of vegetables you can enjoy if you are looking to make soup, roast some veg, or make some winter salads. Remember carrots and parsnips are in abundance, ready for the classic roast root veggies to go with the Christmas turkey, while salads benefit from the crunch of winter celery or red cabbage.

Leafy greens: Brussels sprouts, cabbage, chard, claytonia, endive, kale, oriental salads, red cabbage, and spinach.

Roots and tubers: Carrots, beetroot, celeriac, Jerusalem artichokes, oca tubers, parsnips, and swedes.

Stored veg: Onions, garlic, potatoes, and winter squash.

Stored fruit: Apples, pears. Other: Leeks.

Herbs: Chervil, coriander, parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme.