January weather can be unpredictable, and freezes are still in the forecast. But growth and even blooms of color are on the horizon. That makes this the perfect time to look forward to warmer weather and prepare your garden for growth.
This is the time to protect, maintain and prepare.
Protect
Task one in January is to protect your plants and trees from freezing weather.
Continue to:
- Water before freezes to protect roots.
- Use frost covers to protect delicate plants.
- Replenish mulch around shrubs and trees and garden beds.
Maintain
Maintenance in January keeps your lawn and garden healthy.
- Boost the health of your garden beds by working in 3-4 inches of compost into the soil. The additional of nutrients prime your soil for spring growth.
- Keep clearing your garden of weeds, leaves and winter debris to prevent disease and the spread of weeds.
- Cut back perennials and trim shrubs and trees to prepare for healthy spring growth.
Prepare
Plan now for the growth and even blooms of color in late winter.
- Order plants that promise to bring late winter blooms like the Lenten rose and flowering quince.
- Start seeds indoors for eggplants, tomatoes, celery, peppers, and herbs.
- Plant potato seeds directly at the end of the month.
- If brown patches are a problem on your lawn, the end of the month is a good time to apply fungicide.
