Winter tips for the New Year

In January, the weather is often cold with occasional snowfall, but it’s also the time when early spring plants begin to emerge. Below is a list of tasks to help you nurture your garden and prepare for the coming season.

1. Check on Winter Plants

Daffodils: As you’ve noticed, daffodils are starting to come up. These early bulbs are hardy, but the cold temperatures could cause some damage if there's a frost. If any stems are bent or damaged, gently straighten them. Keep an eye on the weather and protect the plants with fleece or cloches if there's severe frost.

Other Bulbs: Crocuses, snowdrops, and hyacinths might also be emerging. Keep the soil around them well-drained to avoid rot from excess water. If you planted winter aconites or hellebores, they’ll appreciate the colder weather and could also start to bloom.

2. Protect Your Garden from Frost

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of plants to protect the roots from frost. This can also help to retain moisture when the weather warms up. Remember to create a doughnut-shaped ring of mulch around the plant to prevent it from touching the stem, helping to avoid rot.

Covering Delicate Plants: If you have more tender plants like early spring flowers or shrubs, cover them with horticultural fleece or cloches to shield them from freezing temperatures.

3. Prune Winter-Shrubs

Pruning: January is a good time to prune deciduous shrubs and trees that have finished their winter dormancy. This includes roses (if you haven't already pruned them), fruit trees, and certain types of ornamental shrubs. However, avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs (like forsythia) as they will bloom in the spring.

4. Prepare for Spring Planting

Planning: Start planning for your spring garden. Think about what you’d like to plant once the weather warms up and start ordering seeds and plants. 

Soil Preparation: If the weather allows, begin preparing your garden beds by adding compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve the soil structure and help with drainage when you’re ready to plant in spring.

By staying on top of these tasks, you can ensure that your garden thrives through the winter months and is ready for the early spring growth.