February in the UK might seem like a quiet time for gardening, but don’t be fooled! There are plenty of essential tasks to tackle that will set you up for a successful and beautiful spring and summer. So, don your warmest layers, grab your tools, and let’s get gardening!
1. Pruning Power!
February is prime pruning time for many deciduous trees and shrubs before the sap rises and buds begin to swell. This includes:
- Fruit trees: Prune apple and pear trees to encourage healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration.
- Wisteria: Prune wisteria back to two or three buds on the flowering spurs.
- Summer-flowering shrubs: Buddleja, Cornus (Dogwood), and Salix (Willow) can be pruned hard now to encourage vibrant new growth.
2. Seed Sowing Sensations (Indoors!)
While it’s still too cold to sow most things directly outdoors, February is the perfect time to get a head start on your summer garden by sowing seeds indoors. Consider starting:
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, chillies, aubergines, and early varieties of brassicas (like cabbage and cauliflower).
- Flowers: Lobelia, petunias, geraniums, and sweet peas (if you haven’t already).
Use a heated propagator or a warm, bright windowsill to give your seedlings the best start.
3. Bare Root Bonanza
February is often the last chance to plant bare-root trees, shrubs, and roses. Bare-root plants are dormant and can establish quickly in their new homes before the growing season kicks off. Make sure to:
- Soak the roots in water for a few hours before planting.
- Dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots.
- Plant at the correct depth, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
4. Garden Tidy-Up Time
- Clear debris: Remove fallen leaves, dead foliage, and any remaining plant debris from your borders and vegetable patches. This helps to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
- Weed control: Tackle any weeds that are already emerging. Hoeing on a dry day is an effective way to control small weeds.
- Path maintenance: Give your paths a good sweep and remove any moss or algae.
5. Soil Preparation is Key
If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, you can start preparing your vegetable beds and borders for spring planting.
- Dig in compost or manure: This will improve soil structure, drainage, and fertility.
- Test your soil pH: Amend the soil as needed to create the optimal growing conditions for your plants.
6. Protect Against the Elements
- Protect tender plants: Wrap vulnerable plants with horticultural fleece to protect them from frost and cold winds.
- Check winter protection: Ensure that any winter protection measures already in place are still effective.
7. Don’t Forget the Wildlife!
- Keep bird feeders topped up: Provide birds with a reliable source of food during the cold winter months.
- Provide water: Ensure birds have access to fresh, unfrozen water for drinking and bathing.
February might be a chilly month, but it’s a rewarding time to be in the garden. By tackling these essential tasks, you’ll be well on your way to a flourishing garden in the months to come! Happy gardening!