WINTER IN THE GARDEN

As we continue to be restricted indoors on most days, here are some reminders of seasonal tasks, both indoors and outdoors. 

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SEASONAL TASKS

Remember to look after the birds in your garden, so that they will in turn look after pest control over the warmer months ahead.  Fresh water for drinking and bathing is essential and a steady supply of wild bird food encourages them to set up home in your garden.  

 

Those seed catalogues and websites are very tempting, especially on wet, cold days!  Check over any seeds you have in stock so that you avoid ordering things you possibly have already, but also take the opportunity to consider some new varieties.  Most of us have old trusted favourites but it’s good to try something new too.

 

If there is a good dry day this is a great time to clear out the garden shed.  All the bits and bobs gather over the course of the year with things thrown in hastily and all piled up precariously by the end of the year.  Such a rewarding task especially when the busy sowing and growing season really kicks off in Spring and your shed is clean and organised!

 

The snowdrops and winter aconites will be peaking through now and it’s good to clear away faded foliage that might be covering them up so they can give their full effect of lifting our spirits. After they finish flowering is a good time to lift and divide them to create more plants.

 

Buddleia shrubs are great for attracting butterflies but they are inclined to become congested or over large. They respond well to renovation pruning so be brave and grasp those loppers and secateurs and cut them right back to about 10 cm from the ground, cutting straight across where you see new shoots forming. A feed of liquid seaweed or other slow release fertiliser will then set them up for the season ahead.

 

If you grow acid loving shrubs like rhododendrons and camellias now is a good time to give them a feed, ideally with a slow release plant food formulated especially for ericaceous plants. Clear any debris from around the base of the plants so the fertiliser reaches the roots better. Check the instructions for the correct dose and water in well if there is no rain forecast.

 

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Winter is a challenging time for us all and the garden always look rather sad and forlorn but brighter days are coming so let’s start making plans for the new gardening year.