Late Winter Gardening Tips - January and February
Welcome to a brand new year in the garden!
- NOTE: At this time of year there is a lot to do in the garden but you'll want to make sure that you don't get ahead of the season as you can do more harm than good.
Here are a few things to focus on:-
- Plan - see blog in DIY - Welcome to a Brand New Year in the Garden
- Prune and fertilize fruit trees - see blog in DIY - Nigel's Fruit Tree Pruning Tips
- Prune grapes and Kiwi vines. These need to be done in winter before the sap is running.
- Prune evergreens hedges (removing not more than 1/4 to 1/3). Pruning less more regularly, rather than "whacking it back", will result in a much nicer hedge.
- General garden clean up
- Pull weeds that begin to grow before they go to seed
- Gently remove snow from broad leafed evergreens such as Rhododendrons to avoid breakage due to the snow weight as soon as it snows
- Tidy garden shed and check tools are in good shape
- Enjoy sitting in your garden when the sun shines!
February
- Purchase seeds
- Chance an early sowing of Peas after Feb 14th. If you get lucky it is definitely worth it and you don't have to plant a whole package
- Plant a tub with Primroses and Pansies to brighten your front door
- Start begonia tubers inside on your windowsill
- Plant Sweet Peas seeds with manure
- Plant hardy ornamental trees and fruit trees - they love to be planted when they are dormant
- Lime Lawns to sweeten the soil for Spring fertilizing
FEBRUARY VEGETABLE SEED STARTING DATES
- Direct sow:-broad beans, radishes and peas in the garden.
- Start Indoors:-celery, leek, sweet onion, parsley and peppers
Whew! You're finished... sit back and enjoy the feeling of a job well done