As we move into late winter, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your English country garden for spring. While the weather may still be cold and dreary, there are plenty of tasks you can do now to ensure your garden looks its best come springtime. Here are some tips for late winter English country gardening:
1. Prune your trees and shrubs – Now is a great time to prune many trees and shrubs. Pruning helps promote healthy growth and shape, and also helps to remove any dead or diseased branches. Be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears, and avoid cutting into the main stem of the plant. Check out our Niwaki Sentei, Shumastu, and Higurashi Japanese secateurs if it’s time to upgrade.
2. Tidy up your beds – Late winter is a good time to tidy up your garden beds, removing any dead plants or debris from the previous season. Rake up any fallen leaves or other debris, and clear out any weeds or unwanted plants. You can also add a layer of compost or mulch to your beds to help improve soil health. Home composting is a fantastic way of recycling and improving the health of your beds soil.
3. Start your seedlings – If you’re eager to get a head start on your spring garden, now is a good time to start your seedlings indoors. You can use seed trays or small pots, and keep them in a warm, sunny spot until they’re ready to be transplanted outside. Some good choices for late winter seedlings include tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
4. Now is a great time to think about repotting any plants that have outgrown their current home. This will give their root system time to grow in the new nourishing soil in good time for summer when they can then make the most of the extra nutrients and water available, which can lead to healthier and stronger growth.
5. Check your tools and equipment – Finally, take some time to check your gardening tools and equipment. Sharpen your pruning shears, clean your lawn mower, and make sure everything is in good working order before you start using them again in the spring. This will save you time and frustration later on, and help ensure that your garden is in tip-top shape come springtime.
In conclusion, there are plenty of tasks you can do in late winter to prepare your English country garden for spring. By pruning your trees and shrubs, tidying up your beds, starting your seedlings, getting ready to repot, and checking your tools and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful and productive garden season. Happy gardening!
