January can be a daunting month weather wise and it's not very inspiring for getting out in the garden however there's plenty that can be done and needs doing. Here I will give a quick list on some of the tasks that can be started and give you a head start on the gardening year ahead.
Planning.
With most things out of bloom and leaf January can be a great time to decide on any big bed moves or new bed creations as you can clearly see the 'bones' and structure of your garden. It's also a good time to dig up and move any small trees and shrubs if you need to. If you have any plants that didn't do well because of where they are, too much wind exposure, not enough shade, too wet an area for example, now is a great time to move them and see if they fair better elsewhere.
Pruning.
Fruit trees and bushes should be pruned around now as they're in their dormant phase. A lot of climbers should be pruned now, such as climbing roses and wisteria. Pick a day where there's little chance of frost as any fresh cuts can be vulnerable to frost damage.
Cleaning and Clearing.
Clear any old leaves and detritus from beneath plants and in beds. Now is when any disease and fungi will take hold so clearing it will really help with disease control later in the year. Spread a layer of fresh manure such as horse manure or if you don't have access Gro-Sure Farmyard Manure is just as good and mulch wherever you have cleared to protect against frost damage. Second Harvest Landscape Woodmulch is perfect for this. Not only will you prevent pests and diseases but it will look a lot tidier too!
Sowing.
If you have a greenhouse, polytunnel or a bit of space inside you can start sowing. There's a wide range of what can be started now. French Beans, Leeks, Peas Spinach, Turnips, Begonia, Echinacea, Foxgloves are just a very small example. We have a wide range here and will be happy to advise you.
Outside Planting.
There are a few options that you can plant directly out now if the ground isn't too frozen. Hellebores, Cyclamens and Violas can all put up with the cold and windy weather and so are an excellent choice if you are looking for a little colour in the darker months. The Cyclamens and Violas are also a great pick for hanging baskets when put with a little ivy they look great.
Lawn Care.
The wet weather makes your lawn quite soft and vulnerable so the best advice you can take now is to stay off it as much as possible which can be a challenge when you might be trying to prune and move around beds!
If you have major water logging you should try and do a little aeration by gently making holes with a garden fork, go down about 5cm or so. Remove any leaves to stop fungus.
Avoid mowing until later if possible.
Finally clean and top up any bird feeders you may have, there's still slim pickings out there and the birds will thank you by visiting and eating any pests for you in the coming year!
