RHS Expert Unveils Crucial February Gardening Strategy for Spring Success
As the United Kingdom remains gripped by winter's chill, with temperatures often lingering in single digits, a leading horticultural authority has issued a timely reminder that February represents a pivotal window for garden preparation. According to Guy Barter, the chief horticulturalist at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), this month is essential for setting the stage for a flourishing garden from March through June.
Seizing Dry Days for Optimal Garden Readiness
Barter emphasises that while February can be unpredictable with its notorious "February Fill Dike" weather patterns, gardeners should capitalise on drier, less windy days to undertake critical tasks. "February is an important month to get everything, in the greenhouse and outside, ready for March to June when the garden gets going and finish off winter pruning, planting and soil preparation," he explained. The RHS recommends prioritising the preparation of vegetable seed beds and initiating the sowing of vegetable seeds under protective cover to shield them from harsh elements.
Comprehensive To-Do List for Established Gardens
For those with established gardens, February should focus on a multifaceted approach. Key activities include pruning winter-flowering shrubs that have completed their bloom, dividing bulbs such as snowdrops, and renovating overgrown hedges through careful pruning. Additionally, gardeners are advised to clean and organise greenhouses, ensuring they are primed for the growing season ahead.
The RHS has compiled a top ten list of gardening jobs for February:
- Prepare vegetable seed beds and sow vegetables under cover.
- Chit potato tubers to encourage sprouting.
- Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines, and peaches from frost.
- Net fruit and vegetable crops to deter birds.
- Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering.
- Divide bulbs like snowdrops and plant those requiring "in the green" planting.
- Prune wisteria to maintain shape and health.
- Renovate overgrown hedges with strategic pruning.
- Prune conservatory climbers, including bougainvillea.
- At month's end, cut back deciduous ornamental grasses to facilitate new growth.
Strategic Planting and Protection Measures
When it comes to planting, Barter notes that February's suitability depends largely on soil conditions. If the soil is dry, gardeners can proceed with planting onion sets and broad beans outdoors. While March or April is ideal for shrubs and trees, including fruit varieties, planting them in February is acceptable if the soil is sufficiently dry. Similarly, herbaceous perennial flowers such as geraniums, irises, and peonies can be planted now under dry conditions.
For lawn care, Barter advises postponing fertiliser application until April and instead focusing on moss treatment. Since moss thrives in colder months, controlling its growth now can prevent competition with grass come spring. The RHS cautions against using household products like baking soda or vinegar, recommending instead specialised solutions such as the Viano MO Bacter Organic Lawn Fertiliser and Moss Remover.
Managing Pests and Wildlife Interference
Birds, while often welcome, can become problematic in February as they peck at new and established plants, potentially hindering growth. Barter suggests using pest-proof guards and netting to protect vulnerable crops like brassicas. "Birds can get ravenous, so netting brassicas is wise, and put out some bird food to distract them and keep them from harm," he advised. Additionally, gardeners should remain vigilant for pests such as spider mites, fungus gnats, and aphids, employing methods like bottom watering to minimise disease spread.
Planning for New Gardens and Seasonal Transitions
For those starting new gardens, February is an opportune time to draft a comprehensive plan for the upcoming months. Barter recommends preparing for March tasks by installing water butts, digging ponds, building paths, and planting trees and shrubs. He also highlights the importance of chitting potatoes—placing them in cool, bright conditions to sprout—which can give them a head start for planting in late March.
In summary, February demands proactive gardening efforts to ensure a seamless transition into spring. By adhering to these expert guidelines, gardeners can cultivate a vibrant and productive outdoor space, ready to burst into life as the seasons change.
