In January, the middle of winter, thoughts of gardening may still seem a distant dream - rather like the summer holidays. But this is the turning point of the year when you can increasingly start to enjoy gardening again. Much cold weather lies ahead, but often the first spring bulbs are poking through the ground, the buds on many shrubs and trees are beginning to swell and the days are starting to grow longer - albeit almost imperceptibly.
There are not many outdoor jobs that can be done, but planning, buying, and starting off the season in the greenhouse are all pleasant tasks to undertake now. And they all satisfy the urge to be doing something constructive for the gardening year ahead.
Jobs that won't wait
Order seeds to be sown in January or February - you may have to wait some weeks for delivery.
- Protect vulnerable plants from frost and wind damage.
- Firm in any autumn-planted shrubs and border plants lifted by frost.
- Knock snow off branches, especially on conifers and hedges, if they are bending under weight.
- Check stakes and ties on newly planted trees; make sure they are secure and not rubbing.
- Keep an area of water ice free if you have fish in the pond.
- Check on bulbs being forced for indoor display every week so that you don't miss flowering.
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