Peter Dowdall: Why every moment spent in a winter garden is precious 

Fewer daylight hours mean fewer chores, but that's not the only reason Peter Dowdall loves this season 

There is a much softer, quieter and more subtle beauty about the garden at this time of year, says Peter Dowdall. Picture: iStock

As we head towards Christmas, the garden looks to be fast asleep. There is a lovely calmness about our outdoor spaces at this time of year, and the gardens provide a welcome place of solace and quietness away from the hustle and excitement, which seems to become more and more frantic each year.

Trees are standing with their naked stems, some festooned with lights and more left to their own beauty.