Monthly Garden Advice for January
Planting
Now is an ideal time for planting all deciduous varieties of ornamental trees and shrubs including roses, hedging and fruits including apple, pear, plum, cherry, apricot, blackberry, black, red and white currant, gooseberry and raspberry. Carefully prepare the planting site, incorporating Tree and Shrub Compost and Rootgrow Plus to aid establishment. Ensure the planting depth is the same as in the container. Stake and tie trees securely.
New Year Resolutions
Do your bit for the planet by thinking about the carbon footprint of equipment and materials used in the garden. It is easy to find organic alternatives for pest control & feeding. Try and select sustainable products made from wood or plant fibre e.g birdboxes, bio degradable pots and of course garden furniture. For small scale tasks use hand equipment rather then petrol or electric.
Feed the Birds
and provide clean water. Try using different feeds from your normal to see what birds are attracted. You will be surprised how quickly they know there is a new menu on offer! Put up bird boxes to attract different species into the garden.
Seed Potatoes
Select from the excellent range of varieties available in the garden centre and set them ‘eyes uppermost’ in trays to chit or sprout for planting in March-April. They should be kept in a cool (frost free) position in good light to produce sturdy sprouts.
Quick Tips
- pinch tips out of autumn grown sweet peas after 3 or 4 leaves to encourage strong basal shoots - keep cool and in good light.
- protect newly planted trees where rabbits could be a problem using tree guards.
- trim unsightly foliage of herbaceous plants and compost but leave seed heads for birds or frost to enhance.
- de-clutter the greenhouse on a fine day and aim to grow your own salads.
