Must do gardening Jobs for January and February

As the winter chills settle in, you might think that gardening takes a backseat during January and February. But for keen gardeners, these months are the perfect time to prepare for the seasons ahead and tackle essential tasks that will set your garden up for success.

Below are a few key jobs to keep you busy during the cold months:

1. Prune Winter Shrubs and Trees Winter is the best time to prune many deciduous trees and shrubs while they’re dormant. This helps shape the plants and remove dead or diseased wood. Make sure to use sharp, clean tools for a clean cut.

2. Clean and Maintain Garden Tools Keep your tools in good working condition by cleaning them thoroughly after each use. Sharpen blades, oil moving parts, and check for any damage. This maintenance will make the upcoming spring tasks much easier.

3. Plant Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs Bare-root plants are often available during these months, and it’s a great time to plant them. Ensure you choose plants suitable for your climate, and always plant them as soon as you can after purchasing for the best chance of success.

4. Check for Frost Damage Regularly inspect your garden for signs of frost damage, especially to tender plants. You can cover vulnerable plants with fleece or straw to protect them during extreme cold spells, check the weather forecast and even bring tender plants inside.

5. Plan Your Spring Garden Winter is a great time to dream about and plan for the coming season. Start thinking about what you want to grow, order seeds, and sketch out your garden layout. This early preparation will save time and help avoid last-minute stress when the growing season starts.

While it might seem like the garden is dormant, there’s still plenty to do in January and February to keep things ticking over. With a little effort now, you'll ensure your garden is ready to burst into life come spring!