Essential gardening jobs that need to be done in January, according to horticultural experts

Now we're in the new year there's no better time better to start on the garden jobs than right now. Come rain, snow or shine, our gardens need some TLC in the winter too and the experts are here to tell you where to start.

Whether you've decided this is the year to start vegetable gardening for beginners or have been putting off beginning lawn maintenance, the new year brings with it a whole host of new jobs and a pretty limited timeline.

Before you can start choosing what to plant in February or what to plant in March, there are a few jobs you'll need to complete to prepare your garden for an impressive springtime display. We spoke to horticulture experts to find out what tasks they prioritise this time of year and why.

Essential gardening jobs: what to do in the garden in January

Just as there are numerous essential summer gardening jobs, wintertime brings with it its only host of tasks to get done outside. And although the UK weather might not have you in the gardening mood you'll be glad you prepped your garden once spring returns.

1. Clean your greenhouse and outbuildings

Whether you're the proud owner of a glass greenhouse or have maintained your small wooden shed for years, January is the perfect time to give it a little TLC. This is where it's helpful to know how to remove algae from your outdoor structures, especially when it's blocking the sunlight coming into your greenhouse.

Graham Smith MCIhort, gardening expert at LBS Horticulture says, "A clean greenhouse will improve germination as the panes will let more light in, and it can reduce the risk of diseases or pests. January is a good time to clean if you are not overwintering any plants and your greenhouse is empty, but any plants inside can be temporarily moved outside while you are cleaning if they are covered with garden fleece."

Once you've emptied your greenhouse, Graham recommends sweeping up any debris on the floor and cleaning away moss or dirt between the panes. He does warn against using a scourer or wire brush on the glass panes as this can scratch the glass.

Graham Smith MCIhort

Graham has extensive knowledge in the horticultural and gardening industries, and prides himself on using this to help gardeners of all skills create their perfect outdoor space.

2. Keep helping birds and other wildlife

Knowing what foods you can and cannot leave out for wildlife during the colder months should be a top priority. Although you won't be spending as much time in your garden this month, the birds, squirrels and other creatures definitely will.

"Through winter, wildlife that visits your garden may need a little extra help. Place fat blocks in wire cages for birds, and alternate between different kinds of food to attract different species of birds, as some may prefer fruit or nuts," explains Graham.

You'll also want to provide water dishes at the ground level for non-flying or climbing wildlife. Just ensure you're checking that it's not completely frozen and putting out fresh water if needed.

Graham is also quick to point out that you should be careful when turning over compost heaps as some animals may be using them for warmth or shelter in your garden.

3. Remove leaves, algae, moss, and debris from the garden

In the same way, you'll probably need to clean your exterior structures, the rest of your garden will probably look a little grimy from the weather. If you made an effort to protect your garden from heavy rain then you may be lucky and have a pretty easy job on your hands.

Jamie Shipley, gardening expert and managing director at Hedges Direct says, "The upkeep of your garden in the earlier months will make it easier to maintain throughout the year. Rake and remove leaves and debris to keep things tidy and give your greenery sunlight and fresh air."

He also adds that if you find your lawn has built-up moss you can loosen and remove this by scarification with a rake. Algae on the other hand can be cleaned off of surfaces with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water.

4. Maintain your lawn

From when to first cut your grass after winter to the many lawn care mistakes you can easily make, keeping grass happy can feel challenging.

"When the weather allows, take a moment to check your lawn for any objects that may have been left behind," advises Alasdair Boyes, technical manager and lawn care expert at Green Thumb. "Items such as furniture, toys, or even fallen branches can create dead spots on your grass, leaving it stunted or sparse when spring arrives."

The same goes for leaves too, Alasdair recommends clearing any lingering leaves from your lawn as these can block sunlight and prevent your grass from growing properly. Just make sure there's no wildlife hiding under piles of leaves before you rake or scoop them.

After clearing your lawn, Alasdair says it's a matter of mowing when needed. He adds, "With warmer winter temperatures, grass continues to grow and may benefit from a one-off cut. Ensure conditions are dry and the mower blades are sharp before you start."

5. Deep clean your patio and remove any weeds

When it comes to mastering how to get rid of weeds in your garden you'll probably leave that task until the springtime, but the experts warn this could make for a much bigger problem – especially for patios.

Dr Jonathan Kirby, paving expert at Roxil says, "Whether your patio uses natural stones, brick or concrete slabs, some thought needs to be put into the cleaning regime. It will inevitably show some form of mould, algae, lichen or weed growth over the wet winter and spring months. Adding, "This can quickly make even the most meticulously installed patio look unkempt and underwhelming – not ideal if you’re looking for that wow factor."

Whilst you might assume a pressure washer is a way to go for cleaning patio slabs, Jonathan explains that your patio is one of the things in your garden you should never pressure wash.

"They can produce impressive results, but frequent use can cause long-term problems such as surface erosion, damage weak points in the slab and destroy mortar joints. And this leaves the surface more likely to suffer from future biological and weed growth issues," he explains.

Instead, he recommends pulling out larger weeds and then leaving a patio cleaner on the surface for 24 hours. After that simply use a wet brush to loosen stubborn patches of mould, dirt and algae before rinsing away.

6. Continue to protect your plants

It's important to know how to protect your plants from frost during the wintertime even after you think the worst of the weather has come and gone.

Meg Woodward, expert plant buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres, says, "During the coldest months, protecting your plants from harsh frosts is essential to keep them thriving. Using horticultural fleece can provide a layer of insulation, helping to guard tender plants from freezing temperatures. This is particularly important for young or newly planted shrubs and perennials."

She explains how to do this, adding, "imply drape the fleece loosely over plants, securing it with pegs or stones to stop it from blowing away. Be sure to remove it during warmer days to allow air circulation and prevent overheating. For extra protection, wrapping pots or containers in bubble wrap helps keep roots warm through the coldest snaps."

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7. Mulch and prepare seedbeds

Mulching is one of the best ways to help your garden bloom throughout the seasons and it's so easy to get done whatever the weather.

"Mulching in winter is a great way to protect your plants and enrich the soil. Applying a generous layer of organic mulch – such as compost, bark, or well-rotted manure – helps to insulate plant roots, retain moisture, and suppress weeds," says Megan.

She advises you to spread the mulch evenly around the base of fruit trees, shrubs, and roses, taking care not to pile it against stems or trunks. "A layer about 5-7cm thick is ideal. Mulching now not only protects roots from frost but also encourages healthy growth when spring arrives," adds Megan.

Whilst you're mulching and have your tools at the ready, it can also be a great time to prepare your seedbeds. Megan explains, "Getting ahead with seedbed preparation in winter ensures you’re ready for spring planting. On drier days, dig over your vegetable patches or flower beds to break up compacted soil and remove any lingering weeds. This allows the frost to work its magic on the soil, breaking it down into a fine texture perfect for sowing."

She recommends adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to your soil to enrich it and improve its structure. Then rake the soil level and cover it with fleece, this will keep it dry and warm to make sure your seeds have the best possible start come planting time.

FAQs

Can I start gardening in January?

Whether or not you may have been looking for an excuse to get out of gardening this month, there is plenty to be done outside at the start of the year – ensure you know what plants to prune in January, to avoid stunting any potential growth.

Graham says, "Even though the weather in January can still be cold or unfavourable for some plants, you can start gardening this month. For example, some of the things that can be planted in January include chillies, aubergines, broad beans, geraniums and sweet peas."

What garden work can be done in winter?

Of course, following our experts list there are a few smaller tasks you can also be cracking on with at the start of the year before the more heavy lifting begins in March time.

Graham recommends you start pruning your roses, he explains that most kinds can be pruned in January or February as this is the time before their leaves begin to emerge. He also points out that as long as the ground isn't frozen you can also start planting your bushes and bare-root fruit trees in your garden.

Aside from planting, he highlights the importance of draining and isolating your outdoor taps. He says, "This will reduce the chances of the pipes bursting. If you are unable to isolate the tap, insulate any exposed pipes and install a tap cover instead."

Undertaking the task of sorting your garden out can feel like a real challenge, especially when you're tackling it during the cold and wet months. But prioritising your to-do list with things that are going to make a difference come the summer months will have you grateful for your past, soggy, self.