James Ewens, gardening expert at Green Feathers, said: “February is make or break for that spring garden. February bridges winter and spring, and the jobs you do now give your garden the strongest start for the months ahead. It’s the ideal time for sowing, pruning, soil preparation, and supporting your wildlife, a year-round priority. So, it’s really the time to shave off some spring workload, and give your garden the best possible start to the warmer seasons.”
Prepare your lawn
While it isn’t time to cut your lawn yet, the expert recommends preparing for doing so. One of the “best ways” to do so is by avoiding walking across it “at all costs” if it’s waterlogged or frozen.
The expert added, “On the drier days, it’s a good idea to gently rake away moss and debris to improve air circulation and compaction.
“You can also consider using a lawn treatment in February, opt for a natural, chemical-free lawn feed safe for birds and wildlife.”
Last chance to winter prune
January is the prime time for winter pruning, but February is the final call for many plants, according to the expert.
Fruit trees such as apples and pears, roses and deciduous shrubs should be pruned before new growth appears, so now is the best time.
James noted: “Remove dead, diseased or crossing branches to improve airflow and shape plants for spring.
“Pruning now encourages stronger, healthier growth and better flowering and blooming come spring. Ensure you’re pruning in dry, frost-free weather to prevent damage.”
Supporting wildlife
Wildlife should be a year-round priority for gardeners, and February remains a critical survival month for garden wildlife.
James said: “As well as keeping bird feed topped up, leaving remaining seedheads on plants and resisting the urge to over-tidy, it provides vital natural food and shelter for birds, insects and hedgehogs.
“Simple piles of logs, leaves or branches offer safe refuge for hedgehogs and overwintering insects, helping protect the wildlife your garden relies on to flourish in spring.”
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