Peter Mortin, garden expert at Crane Garden Buildings, shared the “essential” gardening jobs you must do this month. Mr Mortin said: “January is one of the most important months in the gardening calendar because it sets the foundations for the rest of the year. While growth may be slow, there are several essential jobs that shouldn’t be ignored.”
One of the “first priorities” is “checking plants for frost damage and protecting anything vulnerable”. Mr Mortin explained: “Prolonged cold snaps can weaken plants or kill off new growth entirely, so using horticultural fleece, moving potted plants into a shed or garden building, or positioning them against a sheltered wall can make a real difference.”
Without this essential first step, plants may struggle to recover later in the year, which can turn into a barren-looking garden.
“It’s also important to clear away fallen leaves and debris from lawns, paths and borders,” added Mr Mortin. “Leaving them in place can encourage rot, mould and pests, and can starve lawns of light, leading to bare patches come spring.”
January is also the best month to check garden fixtures, such as sheds, fences and garden buildings.
Mr Martin made clear that you should be on the lookout for any leaks, damaged felt, or blocked guttering.
“Pruning is another key task for the month,” said Mr Mortin. “Many trees, shrubs and fruit plants benefit from winter pruning, which helps improve airflow and encourages healthier growth later in the year.”
Although, if you have any bushes, such as a Holly bush, it might be best to keep these long so that robins have a chance to nest.
“Finally, January is the perfect time to plan ahead,” Mr Mortin added. “Cleaning tools, organising sheds and planning planting schemes or garden projects now saves time and stress when the weather improves.”
Mr Mortin concluded: “Gardeners who use January well are almost always rewarded with a healthier, more manageable garden as the year unfolds.”
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