The Gardener's Almanac

Overview ; Happy New Year

 

 

This month is about getting things ready for the season ahead.

 

The timing of certain tasks will often be determined by the weather, so to this end; the tasks listed below should be done as and when it is practicle.

 

 

At any time this month

 

• Check over garden tools and service them as necessary.

 

• Wash / clean pots and trays in preparation for propagation.

 

• Set cloches over seedbeds to warm the soil.

 

• After heavy falls of snow, ensure that branches are on trees and shrubs are not weighed down to breaking point.

 

• Do not walk on lawns when frozen.

 

• Plan your garden layout and plant needs.

 

• Sort seeds packets into the order they will be required.

 

• Continue keeping garden free of windblown detritus.

 

• Apply a winter wash to kill off algal slime and moss on paving.

 

• Remove deep-rooted weeds growing through gravel paths or paving.

 

Week No. 1 - 1st to 7th

 

• Order flower and vegetable seeds if you have not already done so.

 

• Take protective measures for cold weather.

 

• Cover coldframes if necessary.

 

• Turn off the outdoor water supply if not done previously.

 

• Order seeds and plants if you have not already done so.

 

Week No. 2 - 8th to 14th

 

• Cover compost heap to conserve generating heat.

 

• If you have not turned over the compost heap do it now.

 

• Check over heaters etc to see if the are working safely.

 

Week No. 3 - 15th to 21st

 

• Keep a watch on humidity levels in the greenhouse.

 

• Check that all young trees and shrubs are securely tied / supported.

 

Week No. 4 - 22nd to 28th

 

• Check over potted shrubs to see if they are pot bound, if they are,re-pot into larger pots / containers.