February may still feel wintry, but the garden is already waking up. Snowdrops and aconites are in flower, and early daffodils are starting to appear - a reminder that spring isn’t far away. Make the most of any mild, dry days by getting outside and tackling a few seasonal jobs. Here are 10 simple tips to focus on this month.
10 gardening tips for February
- Prune shrubs that benefit from a hard cut back, such as fuchsias and buddleias. Reducing last year’s growth now helps encourage strong, healthy shoots later in the season.
- Shape bush roses while they’re dormant. Remove weak or damaged stems and shorten the remaining growth to promote better flowering.
- Cut back shrubby dogwoods towards the end of the month to encourage colourful new stems for next winter.
- Divide snowdrops once flowering finishes. Replanting smaller clumps helps them spread and gives a stronger display next year.
- Trim Group 3 clematis (late-summer flowering varieties) back to low, healthy buds to prepare them for vigorous new growth.
- Start chitting seed potatoes by placing them in a cool, bright spot. This gives them a head start before planting in early spring.
- Cut autumn-fruiting raspberries to ground level to clear away last year’s canes and make room for new ones.
- Prepare vegetable beds by removing weeds and debris. Avoid compacting the soil by standing on boards while you work.
- Plant trees and shrubs if conditions allow - as long as the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged.
- Clean greenhouses and cold frames to improve light levels and create a healthy environment for the growing season ahead.
A little preparation now sets the stage for a productive and colourful garden in the months ahead. If you’re planning your next steps, visit our garden centre in St Albans we’re always happy to help you find the plants, seeds and tools you need.
