Spring is a time for fresh starts – and that applies to your garden as much as your life. According to expert gardener Peter Dowdall, the new year is the perfect moment to take stock, clear away the old, and set your garden up to flourish.
A small greenhouse on a sunny day in a domestic garden. Garden implements lean against the greenhouse, while a wooden seat stands outside./Getty Images(Image: Getty Images)
“Like the rest of us, your garden could do with a reset in January,” Peter says. “And the great thing is, you can start with what’s left over from Christmas.”
Those tired wreaths, wilting floral arrangements and even houseplants that didn’t survive the festive season all have value. “They’re raw materials for the garden,” he explains. “Add them to the compost and they’ll come back as food for your plants.”
Your Christmas tree doesn’t have to go to waste either. Most local authorities will shred and compost them, but Peter suggests using the needles at home if you can. “They’re brilliant for acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. Just scatter them around the base and let them break down naturally.”
January is also the right time to give your plants a little refresh. “Indoors and outdoors, remove the top inch of soil and replace it with fresh compost. Clear away any dead leaves too – it makes a huge difference.”
Starting a compost bin is one of the best resolutions you can make for your garden. “You’ll save on waste fees and create your own valuable feed for free. In a few months, you’ll have rich compost to use, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.”
Peter also encourages gardeners to go chemical-free. “Think ecologically. The less you use chemicals, the healthier your garden will be in the long run – for you, your plants and for biodiversity.”
January is also the best time to look at your garden with fresh eyes. “With no flowers to distract you, you can see the bones of the garden – the structure, the focal points, what works and what’s missing,” Peter says. His tip? Grab a notebook and sketch out a rough plan. “Mark where the shed is, where the trampoline is, the trees, the compost bins. Once you see it on paper, you’ll notice gaps or ideas that could make the whole space work better.”
Sometimes the smallest tweaks can transform how a garden feels. “If you like symmetry, you might realise something would look better in the centre. Or maybe you’ve got two of one plant and three would look more balanced. It’s all about looking with fresh eyes.”
And if your New Year’s resolution is to get fitter, Peter says the garden beats any gym membership. “Working in the garden will keep you aerobically fit, improve your mental health, boost local biodiversity, and give you a beautiful outdoor room to enjoy. Cancel the gym – your garden is your personal fitness studio.”
Find more great gardening tips and tricks at www.theirishgardener.com
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