Gardener's Diary

In association with the Royal Horticultural Society

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK's leading gardening charity dedicated to advancing horticulture and promoting good gardening.

Their goal is to help people share a passion for plants, to encourage excellence in horticulture and inspire all those with an interest in gardening.

In this section on Laterlife they share their expertise to provide your Jobs for the Month - making sure that your garden is ready for the season ahead.

Find out more about how to become a member of the RHS

Jobs for the month - January

The coldest month...

In January, your garden could need protecting from frosts, gale-force winds and heavy rain. Check stakes, ties, fleeces and other supports for damage and consider moving plants to sunnier positions to maximize light. Don't forget to keep feeding the birds, food is scarce for them over winter.

Top 10 jobs this month:

1. Recycle your Christmas tree by shredding it for mulch


2. Ventilate the greenhouse on sunny days


3. Dig over any vacant plots that have not been dug already


4. Repair and re-shape lawn edges


5. Inspect stored tubers of Dahlia, Begonia and Canna for rots or drying out


6. Prune apple and pear trees


7. Start forcing rhubarb


8. Plan your vegetable crop rotations for the coming season


9. Keep putting out food and water for hungry birds


10. Prepare a polythene shelter for outdoor peaches and nectarines, to protect them from peach leaf curl

For more vital tips on caring for your garden from the Royal Horticultural Society check out their January advice for:

Flowers
Trees and Shrubs
Greenhouse, Conservatory and Houseplants
Lawns
Ponds
Structures

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