Around the Yard

Things to do this week:

* Take trees out. As soon as the holidays are over, take living Christmas tree outdoors, into a shaded location, and then slowly move them into a partially sunny spot. Trees like Allepo pine, deodar cedar and redwoods can last for several seasons in a pot and will stay fairly compact if given at least a half-day of sun. When new growth begins in spring, cut each elongating sprout in half to control the size of the tree.

* Contemplate camellias. Some early camellias have already begun blooming, and others will follow in January and February. Buying them in flower is the only way you’ll know how their big blooms really look, and the best time to plant is while they’re blooming. Remember to plant camellias “high,” so the very base of the plant (the crown) is an inch or so above the surrounding soil level. This assures that even if the root ball settles, the crown will not end up below ground, which would bring on diseases that can kill a camellia.

* Adjust sprinklers. Because the sun is so low (it is the darkest time of the year), make sure you are not watering too often. Lawns and other parts of the garden must be allowed to dry out on the surface or the blades will yellow and die, or algae will begin to grow on the soil. Even roses should barely be watered, as some drought seems to help them stay dormant, and rest.