As winter gradually loosens its grip, February marks the beginning of a new gardening season in the UK.
While the weather may still be chilly, there’s plenty to be done in the garden to prepare for the upcoming spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top gardening jobs to tackle in February.
February is an ideal time to prune many deciduous trees and shrubs. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood, shaping plants, and promoting healthy growth. Roses can also be pruned now, cutting back to outward-facing buds to encourage an open and airy structure.
Take advantage of dry days to work on soil preparation. Remove weeds, dig over beds, and incorporate organic matter such as Eco Organic Soil Improver. This will improve soil structure and fertility in preparation for spring planting.
February is a suitable time to plant bare-root trees and shrubs, taking advantage of the dormant season for better establishment.
Start sowing seeds indoors for early crops. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines can be started in trays on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Hardy annual flowers, such as sweet peas and calendula, can also be sown in February.
If you plan to grow potatoes, start chitting them in February. Place seed potatoes in a cool, light spot to encourage the development of sturdy shoots. Early varieties can be planted later in the month if the weather permits.
Apply a layer of mulch around established plants to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and provide insulation against temperature fluctuations. Use Woodland Garden Mulch, Soil Improving Mulch or Amenity Bark Mulch, depending on your aesthetic preferences, for effective mulching.
Take advantage of the cooler weather to build or repair garden structures, such as trellises, raised beds, or fences.
If you have a pond, clean out debris and check pumps and filters. Consider adding oxygenating plants to support pond life.
Use February to finalise your garden plans for the year. Consider crop rotations, companion planting, and succession planting to maximise your garden’s productivity. Order seeds, bulbs, and plants to ensure you have everything you need when spring arrives. February may be a chilly month, but it signals the beginning of an exciting gardening season. By tackling these gardening jobs, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant and productive garden that will flourish as the days grow longer and warmer.
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