Other Jobs Around The Garden This January

Wildlife Care 

• Feed the Birds: Winter can be tough for garden birds, so make sure to provide food, water, and shelter for them. Hang bird feeders filled with seeds, nuts, and suet. Make sure the water in birdbaths doesn’t freeze. 
• Create Shelter for Wildlife: Consider creating homes for beneficial wildlife, such as hedgehogs or insects, by leaving piles of leaves, twigs, or logs in a quiet corner of the garden. 

Composting 

• Continue Composting: Even in winter, you can continue adding kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other compostable materials to your compost bin. If your compost bin is in a colder area, you might want to insulate it to keep the heat in and encourage decomposition. 

Check Garden Drainage 

• Ensure Good Drainage: Check that any garden areas are draining properly, especially after heavy rainfall. If you have areas that tend to waterlog, consider improving the drainage by adding organic matter or adjusting the landscape. 

Tidy Up Flower Beds 

• Prune Perennials: You can prune back any dead or damaged stems of perennials and ornamental grasses, especially those that are showing signs of frost damage. Be careful not to cut back plants that provide winter interest or shelter for wildlife. 
• Cut Back Roses: January is a good time to prune roses, cutting back dead or weak growth. However, wait until the coldest part of winter has passed before doing this. 

General Garden Maintenance 

• Clear Debris: Pick up any fallen leaves, twigs, or plant matter from the garden beds, lawns, and pathways. Wet leaves left on the ground can create a perfect environment for mold and fungal diseases. 
• Repair Fencing and Structures: Winter storms and strong winds can damage fences, trellises, and other garden structures. January is a good time to check and repair them before spring growth begins. 

Protection Against Frost 

• Cover Vulnerable Plants: If you have tender plants in the garden, cover them with horticultural fleece, cloches, or straw to protect them from frost and cold weather. 
• Insulate Outdoor Containers: If you have pots or containers that are prone to freezing, wrap them in bubble wrap or hessian to protect their roots from frost damage. 

Prepare for Stormy Weather 

• Secure Garden Structures: High winds and storms are common in January. Check that any loose garden structures, like sheds, fences, or greenhouses, are secure and that any overhanging branches are safe from being blown down. 
• Check Greenhouse Stability: If you have a greenhouse, make sure it is secure and that the glass or panels are intact. Check for any cracks or damage caused by winter weather. 

January is a quieter time in the garden, but it’s an important month for maintenance, protection, and preparation. Taking care of essential tasks like pruning, protecting vulnerable plants, planning for spring, and looking after wildlife will set you up for a productive gardening season ahead.