Apart from a couple of frosty mornings this year has (so far) begun unseasonably mild again - albeit very wet - which means we have the opportunity to get out into our gardens early paving the way for spring. It also means that some plants will be flowering a bit too early so keep your eyes on those tender plants especially as the chances of a cold snap will still exist for the next few months.
See below for a list of jobs that can be done this month.
- If you plan on sowing seeds early this year – buy the seeds as soon as you can to avoid delivery delays
- Check the weather forecasts to make sure you protect any tender plants from frost and wind
- Regularly check any trees you have staked, the wind can often loosen them
- If you have snow remember to knock it off your hedges and conifers – it can get really heavy and make them bend
- Remove any weeds that show themselves this month
- Wipe all the blades on your cutting tools and remember to give them a rub down once a year with wire wool to remove the rust
- Don’t forget the birds – they rely on you for their food and ice-free water!
- Buy some plant pot cleaner and make sure all your pots are clean and ready for this year's use
- If you plan on sowing seeds outdoors think about covering the soil with cloches (or similar) to get the soil warm and ready for seeds
- Install waterbutts and compost bins
- Check any bulbs or tubers that you are storing for signs of rotting
- Keep borders clear of debris or falling leaves
- Keep your eyes open for any last leaves that fall, sweep them up and keep for leaf mould
- Plant bare root roses
- Clean both the inside and outside of greenhouses and cold frames to get ready for seeds.