January in the garden
January might be one of the quietest months in the garden, but there is still plenty to be getting on with. On dry, frost-free days, a few hours spent outside can make a big difference when spring arrives.
Here are 10 essential gardening jobs to tackle in January.
1. Recycle Your Christmas Tree
If you had a real Christmas tree, don’t automatically send it to landfill. Many councils offer tree recycling services, while shredded branches can make useful mulch.
2. Prune Apple and Pear Trees
January is a good time to winter-prune established apple and pear trees while they’re dormant. Remove dead, damaged and crossing branches and aim for an open structure that allows plenty of light and air through.
Avoid pruning stone fruits such as cherries and plums during winter.
3. Check Winter Protection
Inspect fleece, ties and other protection around tender plants after strong winds. Move vulnerable containers to sheltered positions if particularly cold weather is forecast.
4. Look After Garden Wildlife
Food becomes harder for birds to find during winter. Keep bird feeders topped up and provide clean, unfrozen water.
Leaving some seed heads and undisturbed areas also gives insects and other wildlife somewhere to shelter.
5. Clear Paths and Patios
Wet leaves and algae can make paths extremely slippery. Sweep regularly and clean particularly troublesome areas.
6. Plan This Year’s Garden
January is ideal for sitting down with a notebook and deciding what you want to grow.
Plan vegetable beds, borders and containers and make a list of seeds, plants and materials you’ll need.
7. Order Seeds
Popular varieties can sell out surprisingly quickly. Ordering seeds now means you’ll be ready when sowing season begins.
8. Check Stored Fruit and Vegetables
Inspect stored potatoes, onions, apples and other produce regularly. Remove anything showing signs of rot before it affects neighbouring produce.
9. Clean Pots and Tools
Wash old pots and seed trays and clean your garden tools. Sharpen secateurs and spades where necessary and lightly oil metal tools to help prevent rust.
10. Avoid Walking on Frozen Lawns
A frosty lawn may look inviting, but walking across frozen grass can damage the blades and leave visible footprints once it thaws.
A Quiet Month With Plenty of Potential
January isn’t about transforming the garden overnight. Use the quieter weeks to maintain, plan and prepare and you’ll be ready when spring growth begins.
Gardeners Guide — Grow Better. Garden Smarter.
