Things to do in the garden in January
January may feel quiet in the garden, but it’s the perfect time to prepare for the year ahead. While growth slows during winter, there are plenty of tasks to keep you busy and set the stage for a successful spring.
Plan your planting
Use this downtime to review last year’s successes and plan your planting for the coming season. Buy your seeds early to avoid disappointment and consider crop rotation if you grow vegetables.
Tidy and maintain
Clear away fallen leaves and debris to prevent pests and diseases but keep an eye out not to disturb wildlife and also leave some areas of the garden messy for them too. Clean and sharpen tools, and check fences, trellises and supports for damage. A little maintenance now saves headaches later.
Protect plants
Frost can damage tender plants, so cover them with fleece or cloches. Move pots to sheltered spots and ensure containers are raised off the ground to improve drainage.
Prune and prepare
January is ideal for pruning apple and pear trees while they’re dormant. Remove dead or diseased branches and shape the tree for better growth. You can also cut back roses and wisteria.
Feed the soil
Dig in well-rotted manure or compost to enrich your beds for spring planting. If the ground is too wet or frozen, work on raised beds or containers instead.
Care for wildlife
Food is scarce for birds in winter, so top up feeders and provide fresh water. A little effort helps wildlife thrive and keeps your garden lively.
Check stored produce
If you’ve stored apples or root vegetables, inspect them regularly and remove any that show signs of rot.
Get more free advice
January is all about preparation and protection. A few simple tasks now will ensure your garden is healthy, productive and ready to burst into life when warmer days return.
If you need further assistance, the teams at our member garden centres would be delighted to help you, please visit or get in touch with your nearest GCA member garden centre.
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