Winter gardening

Winter might seem like a time to retreat indoors, but it’s a crucial season for garden care and preparation. The milder winters often mean there’s still plenty you can do to keep your garden thriving.

1. Protect your plants

Many plants need extra care during the colder months. Consider these tips to protect your garden:

• Move potted plants indoors or to sheltered areas: If you have delicate plants in pots, bring them inside or place them in a greenhouse to shield them from frost.
• Apply mulch: Spread a layer of mulch around your plants to insulate their roots and retain moisture.
• Use fleece or cloches: For plants that remain outside, cover them with garden fleece or cloches to protect against frost.

2. Prune and tidy

Winter is an ideal time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs. Without their leaves, it’s easier to see the structure and remove any dead or diseased branches. Tidy up fallen leaves and debris, especially around plant bases, to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.

3. Plan ahead

While your garden may be quieter, winter is perfect for planning your spring and summer displays:

• Order seeds and bulbs: Get ahead by purchasing seeds for vegetables, flowers, and summer bulbs.
• Design new layouts: Use the downtime to sketch new planting schemes or plan hard landscaping projects.

4. Maintain your lawn

Grass growth slows in winter, but you can still take steps to care for your lawn:

• Avoid walking on frozen grass: This can damage the blades and lead to patchy areas.
• Clear leaves and debris: Keep your lawn tidy to prevent moss and weeds from taking over.

5. Look after wildlife

Encourage birds and other wildlife to visit your garden:

• Provide food and water: Set up bird feeders with high-energy foods like seeds and suet, and check that water sources don’t freeze over.
• Create habitats: Leave some areas a little wild, with logs or piles of leaves, to give shelter to insects and hedgehogs.

6. Check your tools and equipment

Take the opportunity to clean, sharpen, and repair your garden tools. Well-maintained equipment will make spring gardening much easier. If you have power tools, such as mowers, service them now so they’re ready to go when needed.

7. Embrace winter planting

Some plants thrive in cooler temperatures. Consider adding winter-flowering varieties like hellebores, snowdrops, or winter pansies for a splash of colour.

8. Stay safe

Winter gardening can be rewarding but take care in wet or icy conditions. Wear appropriate clothing, including sturdy footwear, and work during daylight hours when it’s safest.

By staying active in your garden this winter, you’ll not only protect and prepare your outdoor space but also set yourself up for a flourishing spring season.

Let’s create your perfect garden

Whether you need advice or assistance with your winter gardening tasks, Flourish Landscaping is here to help.

Contact us today to arrange a consultation and start transforming your garden into the perfect outdoor space for you and your family.