As we enter the new year, many gardeners will be eager to get started on a new season of gardening, and thinking about what tasks they can start tackling in their gardens. Here are our suggestions for five ways you can get stuck into your garden in January.
Prune deciduous trees and shrubs
As the leaves have fallen and the plants are in their dormant phase, January is a good time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs. This will help to shape the plants and encourage new growth in the spring. Just be sure to make clean cuts and avoid pruning too heavily, as this can damage the plant.
Plant bare-root trees and shrubs
Many trees and shrubs are sold as bare-root plants in the winter months. This means that they are dug up from the ground with their roots exposed, rather than being sold in pots. These plants are often cheaper and easier to plant, as they are lighter and easier to handle. Just be sure to plant them as soon as possible after purchase, and keep the roots moist until planting.
Clean and repair garden tools
After a busy season of gardening, your tools may be in need of some TLC. January is a good time to give them a thorough cleaning and make any necessary repairs. This will help to extend the life of your tools and ensure that they are ready for use when the gardening season begins again.
Start seeds indoors
If you want to get a head start on the gardening season, consider starting some seeds indoors in January. This will give you a jump start on the growing season and allow you to have a variety of plants ready to go when the weather warms up. Just be sure to provide your seedlings with plenty of light and warmth, and keep them well watered.
Plan your garden
While it may be too cold to do much actual gardening in January, it’s a great time to plan out your garden for the coming season. Consider what plants you want to grow, where you will plant them, and what types of containers or raised beds you will need. Having a plan in place will help you to make the most of your gardening efforts once the weather warms up.
By following these tips, you can make the most of the month ahead and get a jump start on the growing season. Happy gardening!