Gardening in January

Whoever said January was a boring month for gardening? A quick look out of the window usually proves otherwise. While flowers may be scarce, January gardens are full of quieter interest — evergreen structure, bare branches, textured seed heads and the subtle colour of winter bark, often highlighted by frost.

If you’re very lucky (or unlucky, depending on your view!), a snowfall can add another layer of beauty. Even without snow, most gardens will see at least a few frosty mornings. With recent winters tending to be milder, it’s not unusual to spot early spring bulbs already pushing through as the days begin, ever so slightly, to lengthen.

January is also a valuable pause point in the gardening year. Growth is slow, the ground is often resting, and that makes it an ideal time to observe, plan and prepare — all of which pay dividends later in the season.

This guide has been updated for January 2026 to reflect current seasonal conditions and gardening best practice.

Planning and preparation for the year ahead

This is a great month to start planning in comfort, indoors. Seed catalogues, gardening books and magazines come into their own now, helping you think ahead to the year to come.

• Make a list of seeds or plants you’d like to grow this year
• Order seeds early to avoid shortages or delivery delays
• If sowing seeds feels a little risky, plan which young plants you’ll buy instead
• Consider practical upgrades such as a greenhouse, compost bin or water butt — winter is a good time to install them before the garden gets busy

A little preparation now makes spring feel far less rushed.

January garden jobs: what you can do outside

Even in colder weather, there are still plenty of gentle but worthwhile jobs that can be tackled on dry days — and they’re a good excuse to get some fresh air after the festive period.

Protect and check plants

• Keep an eye on weather forecasts and protect tender plants from frost and wind
• Check staked trees regularly, as winter winds can loosen ties
• Knock heavy snow from hedges and conifers to prevent branches bending or snapping

General garden care

• Remove any weeds that appear — it’s easier now than later
• Keep borders clear of debris and fallen leaves
• Sweep up remaining leaves and store them to make leaf mould
• Check stored bulbs and tubers for signs of rot

Tools, pots and structures

• Clean and sharpen cutting tools; wipe blades after use and remove rust with wire wool
• Clean plant pots ready for spring planting
• Clean greenhouses and cold frames inside and out to maximise light levels
• Install water butts and compost bins if you haven’t already

Wildlife and early planting

• Feed garden birds regularly and keep water sources ice-free
• Plant bare-root roses while the ground is workable
• If you’re planning early outdoor sowing, cover soil with cloches to help it warm

A calm start to the gardening year

January isn’t about rushing — it’s about setting the tone. Observing your garden, protecting what’s already there and quietly preparing for the months ahead all help create a smoother, more enjoyable gardening year.

Looking ahead? You may also find our guide to gardening in February useful.
Or catch up on what to do in the garden in December.