Winter can feel like a long three months, but as you approach the second week in January, it’s time to start thinking about spring, especially when it comes to your garden.
You probably put all thoughts of your garden to the back of your mind as soon as autumn was over, but now that we are (hopefully) entering warmer temperatures and brighter evenings you should focus your attention on the outside.
While you are not very likely to want to go out in the freezing cold and do some digging, small preparations will mean you’ll be ready as soon as February/ March rolls around.
1. Clear up your beds
Tidy up any dead leaves and debris from your flower beds and cut back dead plants that are taking over.
2. Fix your fences
With the horrendous weather that we have been having don’t be surprised if your fences are broken or falling down. Now is the time to get out and fix it, before you start and planting.
3. Decide what you want to plant
Now is the time to decide what you want to plant so that you don’t miss optimal sowing time. Some seeds require planting in February or March so make sure you are ready to go.
4. Clean your tools
Yes, this is actually pretty important - you don’t want to be working with rusty or broken tools. Cleaning them will also help stop the spread of any kind of fungus.
5. Cultivate the soil
Turn the soil if it's dry and crumbly, and use a fork to break it up. However, don't do this if it's wet as it will just become clumpy and hard to work with.
