Topical Tips

 TOPICAL TIPS 

WINTER JOBS IN THE GARDEN

Winter gardening involves essential tasks like planning for spring, planting bare-root trees/bulbs, pruning dormant plants, maintaining tools, supporting wildlife, and preparing soil with compost, all while protecting sensitive plants and cleaning up to prevent pests and diseases, ensuring a thriving garden come warmer weather.  

Planning & Preparation

• Plan Spring Garden: Browse seed catalogues and plan your planting schedule. 

• Clean & Organize: Clean tools, empty pots, clear gutters, and tidy sheds.

• Tool Maintenance: Sharpen, oil, and clean secateurs, loppers, and other tools. 

• Soil Prep: Dig over empty beds, add compost/manure, or apply mulch. 

Planting & Pruning

• Plant: Garlic, onion sets, and bare-root fruit trees/bushes (when soil isn't frozen). 

• Prune: Roses, apple/pear trees, and summer-flowering shrubs (when dormant). 

• Divide: Overgrown perennials like rhubarb. 

Wildlife & Protection

• Feed Birds: Provide fresh water (melt ice) and high-energy food. 

• Protect Plants: Mulch tender perennials or cover pots with fleece. 

• Leave Some Mess: Keep dead stems/seedheads for insect habitats and bird food. 

Lawn & Structures

• Lawn Care: Rake moss, aerate compacted soil, and trim edges. 

• Secure Boundaries: Inspect and repair fences or walls. 

• Ponds: Add a ball to prevent complete freezing, helping fish and structure. 

Indoor & Miscellaneous

• Greenhouse: Clean thoroughly and move sensitive potted plants to sheltered spots.

• Furniture: Clean or store garden furniture.