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February Gardening Jobs: How to Prepare the British Garden for Spring

As the days gradually lengthen and the first signs of spring begin to emerge, February offers a fantastic opportunity to get ahead in the garden. While the weather can still be frosty and unpredictable, there are plenty of tasks to keep green-fingered enthusiasts busy. Here’s a guide to the key jobs that will set your garden up for a successful year ahead.

Pruning for Better Growth


February is the perfect time to prune many deciduous shrubs and trees. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth. Roses, fruit trees like apples and pears, and late-flowering clematis all benefit from a good winter tidy-up. Remember to use clean, sharp tools to avoid spreading diseases.

Prepare Vegetable Beds


If you’re dreaming of homegrown produce, now is the time to prepare your vegetable beds. Clear any weeds or debris, and dig in well-rotted compost or manure to enrich the soil. For crops like peas, broad beans, and onions, you can sow seeds under cloches or in a greenhouse for an early start.

Care for Your Lawn


While it’s too early for mowing, your lawn still needs attention. Clear away leaves, twigs, and any debris that has built up over winter. If the weather is mild, aerate compacted areas by spiking the soil with a garden fork or lawn aerator. This will improve drainage and help the grass grow stronger come spring.

Protect Against Frost


February frosts can be harsh, so ensure your garden is well-protected. Cover tender plants with fleece or cloches, and wrap pots in bubble wrap to prevent roots from freezing. For plants like hellebores and snowdrops, remove old foliage to showcase their beautiful blooms.

Start Early Sowing Indoors


Get a head start on spring by sowing seeds indoors. Vegetables like tomatoes, chillies, and aubergines thrive when started early in seed trays on a sunny windowsill, in a propagator or a heated greenhouse. Hardy annuals such as sweet peas can also be sown now, ready to plant out once the frosts have passed.

Feed the Wildlife


Winter can be tough for garden wildlife, so keep bird feeders topped up with seeds, nuts, and suet. Providing fresh water and a variety of food will help birds stay healthy and encourage them to visit your garden throughout the year. Remember to clean your feeders from time to time to help prevent the spread of disease, keeping your feathered friends healthy.

Plan for the Year Ahead


Use this quieter time to plan your garden’s layout and planting schemes. Take stock of your seeds, tools, and supplies, and make a list of anything you need to replace. February is also a great month to order summer bulbs and plants for the months ahead.

By tackling these February garden tasks, you’ll not only beat the winter blues but also give your garden the best possible start for the new growing season. A little effort now will lead to a flourishing garden that’s ready to burst into life come spring!

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