Garden maintenance tips for February: preparing for a blooming spring

February may still feel like the heart of winter, but it’s a pivotal time in the gardening calendar. As the days start to get a little longer, this month offers the perfect opportunity to carry out garden maintenance and prepare your garden for the upcoming spring. Whether you’re tidying up or planting the first seeds of the year, here are some essential tips to keep your garden on track this February.

Tip 1. Prune and tidy

February is an ideal time to prune and tidy your garden in preparation for new growth.
• Prune shrubs and trees: Tackle deciduous trees, hedges, and shrubs, removing dead or damaged branches. It’s also the perfect time to prune roses for strong growth and beautiful blooms in spring.
• Cut back perennials: Trim back old foliage from perennials like ornamental grasses and ferns to make way for new shoots.
• Clear debris: Remove fallen leaves and debris to keep garden beds clean and reduce pests and disease.

Tip 2. Prepare your soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden.
• Add compost or manure: Enrich your soil with well-rotted compost or manure to prepare it for spring planting.
• Turn over the soil: Loosen compacted soil to improve drainage and aeration.
• Test soil pH: Check your soil’s pH level to ensure it’s suitable for your upcoming plants, and amend as needed.

Tip 3. Start sowing seeds indoors

February is a great time to get a head start on your planting by sowing seeds indoors.
• Vegetables: Start seeds for crops like tomatoes, peppers, and onions in a warm, bright spot.
• Flowers: Sow hardy annuals like sweet peas and delphiniums to give them a strong start before planting out in spring.
• Seed trays and propagators: Use seed trays or propagators to maintain the right conditions for germination.

Tip 4. Plant early vegetables

For those eager to get growing, there are a few vegetables that can be sown outdoors in February.
• Broad beans and peas: Plant these hardy crops directly into prepared beds for an early harvest.
• Garlic and shallots: Continue planting these cold-hardy bulbs if you didn’t get the chance in autumn.
• Early potatoes: Start chitting seed potatoes by placing them in a cool, bright spot to encourage sprouting.

Tip 5. Look after your lawn

Your lawn needs attention now to prepare it for lush growth in spring.
• Remove moss: Use a moss killer to tackle any build-up on your lawn.
• Aerate the lawn: Use a garden fork to improve drainage in compacted areas.
• Re-seed bare patches: Patch up bare areas to ensure even growth.

Tip 6. Protect your plants

The weather in February can be unpredictable, so it’s important to protect your garden
• Frost Protection: Use fleece or cloches to shield vulnerable plants from late frosts.
• Mulch Beds: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to insulate roots and retain moisture.
• Check Ties and Supports: Ensure stakes, ties, and supports are secure to withstand windy weather.

Tip 7. Feed the birds

February can be a tough time for wildlife, so lend a helping hand to garden birds.
• High-energy feed: Provide seeds, suet, and mealworms to help birds through the colder months.
• Fresh water: Ensure bird baths are topped up and free from ice.
• Install nesting boxes: Set up birdhouses to encourage nesting as the season progresses.

Tip 8. Plan your garden projects

February is a great time to start planning larger projects for the year ahead.
• Garden Design: If you’re thinking about a redesign, this is the perfect time to consult a professional or sketch out ideas.
• Order Seeds and Plants: Stock up on seeds, bulbs, and plants so you’re ready for spring planting.
• Maintenance Plans: Schedule routine garden care to keep everything looking its best throughout the year.

Tip 9. Bring colour to your garden

While most gardens are still resting, you can add some winter colour with the right plants.
• Winter blooms: Plant hellebores, snowdrops, and crocuses to brighten your beds.
• Evergreens: Incorporate evergreen shrubs and climbers for structure and year-round appeal.
• Potted Plants: Use containers with winter-flowering pansies or heathers to liven up patios and entrances.

Tip 10. Inspect and repair garden equipment

Before the busy spring season begins, ensure your tools and equipment are in good shape.
• Clean tools: Remove dirt and rust, and sharpen blades for effective use.
• Service lawn mowers: Check oil levels and clean the blades so they’re ready for the growing season.
• Organise the shed: Declutter and organize your tools, making it easier to find what you need.

Embrace the February garden

Although February may seem like a quiet month, it’s a time full of potential for gardeners. By pruning, preparing, and planning, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant, thriving garden in the months to come.

Need help with your February garden tasks or planning for spring? At Green Dream Concepts, we’re here to support you with bespoke garden designs, maintenance, and advice tailored to your space. Get in touch today to make your garden dreams a reality! 🌿