Gardening Chores - February

February - Preparing for the Big Thaw:

February is the last stretch of winter…despite cold and risk of frost, the days are lengthening. It’s time for early preparation: start pruning, weeding and begin sowing hardy annuals and vegetables for a head start on spring.

In the Flower Garden

Cut back any deciduous grasses you left uncut over the winter. This will encourage new growth and keep your borders looking tidy.
Divide and replant perennial plants to encourage healthy new growth and give them a refresh.
Now is a great time to prune any winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering. This will help them to put their energy into growing new stems.
Prune wisteria and hardy evergreen hedges to maintain their shape and keep them looking their best.
If you have any remaining snow, gently brush it off trees and shrubs to prevent damage to branches.
You can also propagate new shrubs by taking hardwood or root cuttings.

The Vegetable Plot & Orchard

Prepare seed beds for the new season. Clear any weeds and debris, and add some fresh compost to give your plants the best start.
To get a head start, sow some vegetables under cover, like broad beans and peas.
'Chit' potato tubers by placing them in an egg box in a cool, light place. This gets them ready for planting late next month.
Start forcing rhubarb for the sweetest stems.
Protect early fruit blossom on top fruit trees like apricots, nectarines, and peaches from frost.
Net fruit crops to keep birds from enjoying them before you do.
Prune vines now by cutting off last year’s fruited canes and tying down any new growth.

Lawns & Hedges

If you are planning for a new lawn, prepare the ground now by removing any weeds.
Scarify and spike your lawns to improve drainage and air circulation.
Lay turf if the ground is not too wet or frosty.
Remove any unwanted mushrooms by simply brushing them from your lawn.

Ponds & Water Features

Place netting over ponds to prevent leaves and twigs from falling in and decaying.
Clean and service pumps, fountains, and filters in pools and ponds.
If the water freezes over, place a ball in the pond to create an open area on the surface.
If you're planning a new pond, start digging now! You can use the spring rains to help fill it.

General Garden Maintenance

On warmer days, ventilate your greenhouse to prevent a build-up of moisture and mould.
Check that your greenhouse insulation is securely attached.
Invest in a min-max thermometer to make sure your greenhouse heaters are functioning correctly.
Keep checking plants for pests, disease, and plant rot.
Brush any snow off the roofs of your greenhouse to prevent damage and let in as much light as possible.