February in the garden
February is when you can finally start feeling that spring isn’t too far away. Days are getting longer, bulbs are appearing and there are plenty of jobs that can give your garden a head start.
1. Prune Roses
Late winter is a traditional time to prune many established bush roses. Remove dead and damaged stems before shaping the plant to encourage healthy new growth.
2. Prepare Vegetable Beds
On dry days, remove weeds and add well-rotted compost or organic matter to empty vegetable beds.
Avoid working soil when it’s saturated or frozen.
3. Start Chitting Seed Potatoes
Place seed potatoes in a bright, cool, frost-free location with the eyes facing upwards. They’ll begin producing short shoots ready for planting later.
4. Sow Early Seeds Under Cover
Some vegetables and flowers can be started indoors or in a heated propagator this month.
Don’t rush everything, though. Later sowings often catch up once temperatures improve.
5. Cut Back Ornamental Grasses
Deciduous ornamental grasses that were left standing for winter interest can now be cut back before fresh growth gets underway.
6. Divide Snowdrops
Established snowdrops can be divided after flowering while they’re still “in the green”. Replant the divisions immediately.
7. Clean the Greenhouse
Wash greenhouse glass to maximise available light and clear out old plant debris before the busy growing season begins.
8. Check Garden Tools
Make sure your mower, secateurs, spades and other tools are ready for spring. It’s much easier to arrange servicing now than when you desperately need them.
9. Keep Feeding Birds
Natural food supplies can still be scarce in February, so continue providing suitable food and fresh water.
10. Look for Signs of Spring
Check emerging bulbs and new perennial growth for slug and snail damage.
Spring Is Getting Closer
February is all about preparation. Get ahead now and you’ll have much more time to enjoy the garden once everything bursts into growth.
Gardeners Guide — Grow Better. Garden Smarter.
