January

The Edible Garden

Prune apple and pear trees. The aim is to encourage an open centred shape Remove any criss-crossing branches.There is still time to prune raspberries. Cut back old canes, which fruited in the summer, to ground level, then tie in the new canes which were produced during the summer.

Plant new fruit trees and bushes (many will be bare rooted), in free draining, workable soil. Apply winter washes to dormant fruit trees to control overwintering eggs of scale and aphids. In the vege garden you can apply garden lime to areas which had compost and organic matter dug in during late summer and autumn. Dig over unplanted areas of the vege garden and work in compost, well rotted manure, and other organic matter to improve soil condition. Place slug bait around as necessary. In mild areas broad beans can be started in pots and put in cold frames until planted out in spring.


The Flower Garden

Lift and divide herbaceous perennials if this has not already been done. Lily bulbs can be planted in pots, and in flower borders in milder areas. Plant new roses.

Beech, Hazel, and roses can be pruned and tidied up.

GeneralReplenish and hang bird feeders. Keep bird bath water clean and fresh and make sure it is not frozen over. Buy new seasons seed potatoes now and prepare for later sowing by placing in a frost free, dry place until sprouts appear on the potatoes.


What to look for in store this Month

Wild bird food.
Suet balls, peanuts, Nice Nuts.
Bare root deciduous trees and hedging plants.
Bare root roses.
Six pack polyanthus