As we greet a new year, many people think about new beginnings and resolutions for the year. Gardening may be a quiet time for gardeners, but it is a great opportunity to reflect on the successes of last year and plan for an even better year this year.
Plan
Use the promise of longer, warmer days to plan your gardening projects for the year. Review your gardening successes and challenges of 2024 and decide where you want to place your focus in 2025. Sketch out your planting schemes, and consider rotating crops in vegetable beds to maintain soil health. If you are being super organised, you could look at ordering seeds early to make sure that you have them when you are ready to get started.
Soil care
Winter provides a good opportunity to give your soil some tlc without disrupting plants. If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, dig over empty vegetable beds and add organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost. This improves soil structure and fertility in time for spring planting. For heavy clay soils, consider applying gypsum to help break up compacted areas.
Tidy up
January is the ideal time to prune dormant trees, shrubs, and climbers. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth.
- Prune apple and pear trees to maintain shape and productivity.
- Cut back wisteria by reducing side shoots to two or three buds.
- Trim deciduous hedges to keep them neat.
Make sure that you avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs as you may remove buds that would bloom later in the season.
Frost protection
Frost can cause damage to some plants. Protect delicate specimens by covering them with horticultural fleece or cloches. Move potted plants to sheltered spots or wrap pots in bubble wrap to insulate roots. For particularly sensitive plants, consider using straw or mulch as an added layer of protection.
Start inside
If you are itching to get growing, you can start by sowing seeds indoors. Hardy annuals, chillies, and sweet peas can be sown in seed trays or pots on windowsills or in heated greenhouses. Use good-quality seed compost and provide adequate light to encourage strong, healthy seedlings.
Look After Lawns
Although grass growth is minimal during winter, avoid walking on frosty or waterlogged lawns to prevent damage. Clear away fallen leaves and debris to improve air circulation and prevent disease. If conditions are mild, consider applying a winter lawn feed to strengthen roots.
January gardening may not be the most exciting month for gardeners, but it’s a good opportunity to prepare for the growing season ahead. By tending to your soil, protecting plants, and planning for the future, you’ll ensure your garden is ready to thrive in the coming months. If you are unsure about how to tackle your garden this year, hiring a professional gardener can help you to get off to a strong start. For more guidance about keeping your home and garden in great condition, follow Trust A Trader on X or Facebook.