While January may seem like the quietest month in the garden, it’s actually a great time to get a head start on essential tasks that will ensure your garden is ready to thrive come spring.

From looking after your garden wildlife to preparing your plants and structures, here are some top gardening tips to tackle in January.

1. Refill Bird Baths with Fresh Water

Winter weather can make it tough for birds to find fresh water, so be sure to refill bird baths with fresh water every day. On those particularly cold mornings, use warm water to melt any ice that may have formed overnight. This will ensure that local birds have access to water when they need it most. Birds rely on clean water for drinking and bathing, so keeping their supply topped up is crucial during the colder months.

2. Place Bird Boxes in Sheltered Locations

If you’re planning on adding bird boxes to your garden, now is the perfect time to install them. Place bird boxes in sheltered locations, such as on tree trunks or in quiet corners of your garden. By getting them up in advance of the nesting season, you’ll give birds plenty of time to find them and get comfortable before they begin building their nests. Make sure the boxes are securely mounted and facing away from prevailing winds for maximum protection.

3. Offer High-Energy Food to Birds

The winter months can be tough for birds, so offering high-energy food like suet cakes, peanuts, and sunflower seeds is essential. These foods provide the extra calories that birds need to stay strong and healthy during the colder weather. Place feeders in sheltered spots and ensure they’re regularly topped up. You’ll be helping to support a variety of bird species that rely on your garden as a food source.

4. Sprinkle Fertilizer Around Hedges and Shrubs

While plants are largely dormant in January, it’s still a good time to give your hedges and shrubs a little extra care. Sprinkle an all-purpose fertilizer along the base of your hedges and around your shrubs to provide essential nutrients that will support healthy growth come spring. Be sure to apply the fertiliser evenly and avoid direct contact with plant stems to prevent any damage.

5. Dig Over Gaps in Borders

Take the opportunity to dig over any gaps in your borders that might have appeared. It’s an ideal time to remove the roots of perennial weeds before they have a chance to take hold. Gently fork the soil to loosen it up and prepare it for planting when the weather warms up. This will give your garden beds a head start for the spring planting season.

6. Clear Debris from Shed and Greenhouse Gutters

Winter rain and wind can quickly clog up your shed and greenhouse gutters, preventing proper water flow and potentially causing damage to your structures. Take a moment to clear any debris that has built up, such as leaves, twigs, and moss. Keeping your gutters clear will allow winter rain to fill your water butts, ensuring that you have a good supply of water for your garden when the growing season begins.

7. Trim Back Climbers

Climbers like ivy and Virginia creeper can quickly become unruly in the winter months. If these plants have outgrown their space or are getting too close to buildings, it’s a good idea to trim them back. Do this before the bird nesting season begins, which typically starts in March, to avoid disturbing any nesting birds. By pruning back overgrown climbers now, you’ll keep them manageable and in check as they begin to grow in spring.

8. Fix Wobbly or Damaged Fences

Take the time to inspect your fences and other wooden structures around your garden. If any of them are looking wobbly or damaged from winter weather, now is the time to fix them. Repair any broken panels or posts to ensure your garden is secure. If you have wooden structures, such as trellises or sheds, consider applying a preservative during dry spells to protect the wood from rot and ensure it lasts through the wet winter months.

January 27, 2025