Winter Gardening Jobs for January and February in the UK

Winter might seem like a quiet time in the garden, but there’s still plenty to do. January and February are perfect months for planning, tidying, and getting a head start on the growing season. Here’s a list of key gardening tasks to keep your outdoor space in shape.

1. Planning for the Year Ahead

Order seeds and plants – If you haven’t already, now’s the time to browse seed catalogues and order your favourites for spring.
Plan your vegetable garden – Think about crop rotation, companion planting, and any new varieties you want to try.
Sketch out new projects – Considering a new border, raised beds, or a wildlife area? Plan it out now so you’re ready to start when the weather improves.

2. Winter Pruning ❄️

Fruit trees – Apples and pears benefit from pruning while dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth.
Wisteria – Cut back summer growth to two or three buds to encourage flowering.
Roses – Remove dead or weak stems and prune hybrid teas and floribundas towards the end of February to encourage strong new growth.
Deciduous hedges – Tidy up before birds start nesting in spring.

3. Preparing the Soil 🧪🌱

Dig over beds – If the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged, dig over vegetable and flower beds, incorporating compost or well-rotted manure.
Mulch around shrubs – A layer of organic mulch will help insulate roots and improve soil structure.
Check soil pH – Test your soil and add lime to acidic soil if needed.

4. Looking After Plants 🪻💐

Protect tender plants – Use fleece or cloches to shield delicate plants from frost.
Check stored bulbs and tubers – Remove any that have rotted to prevent disease spread.
Keep evergreens watered – If there’s a dry spell, ensure potted evergreens don’t dry out.

5. Sowing and Growing 🌱

Start early crops indoors – Sow chillies, peppers, and tomatoes in a heated propagator or sunny windowsill.
Broad beans and sweet peas – These can be sown in an unheated greenhouse or cold frame.
Onions and leeks – Start them in modules for an early crop.

6. Lawn and General Maintenance 🍁

Clear debris – Remove leaves, twigs, and moss to prevent diseases.
Repair paths and fences – Winter storms can cause damage, so check for loose panels and broken paving.
Clean pots and tools – Prevent pests and diseases by disinfecting pots and sharpening tools.

7. Encouraging Wildlife 🦔

Top up bird feeders – Food is scarce in winter, so keep feeders filled and provide fresh water.
Create log piles – These make great shelters for insects and hedgehogs.
Leave some areas undisturbed – Long grass and leaf piles can be vital winter refuges for wildlife.

Final Thoughts 💬

Gardening in January and February may not be the most glamorous, but it’s a great time to prepare for a productive year ahead. Whether you’re pruning, planning, or protecting plants from frost, these tasks will set you up for a fantastic growing season.

What are your top gardening tasks for winter? Let me know in the comments!

Photo by Dean Lewis on Unsplash