It’s a new year and there is plenty of opportunity for us to keep busy in the garden! Although January is often the coldest month, it’s also a great month to garden in preparation for a beautiful spring display. We should also be looking out for wildlife through this month, leaving appropriate food and shelter options and also making sure any water bowls haven’t frozen over. Find out how you can help wildlife here.
It is still the season to plant bare root hedging plants whilst they are still dormant. Bare root hedging is the most affordable way to grow a hedge in your gardens.
When planting, if you are using a stake, always place this before the plant to avoid damaging the root system. It is safe to move established deciduous trees and shrubs now, as the roots will still be dormant – but again, check the ground is not frozen before doing this.
If we experience snow this month, proceed carefully when clearing it from bending branches or splayed shrubs. Brush the snow off gently so that delicate branches do not snap and your hedges are not forced apart by the weight. Remove any broken branches, check ties and stakes are still secure and replace any worn supports. If you have not yet done so, use straw, secured with fleece or ties, to cover the branches of your deciduous trees and shrubs – this will protect them from the cold weather and prevent frost damage. Inspect your trees for damage or disease. It’s much easier to spot dead branches and cankers when the branches are bare.
We’d love to hear your own top tips for January gardening or see photos of your newly planted hedges and shrubs. You could even send us photos of any wildlife you’ve spotted enjoying your winter garden. Share to our Facebook page or tweet us @best4hedging
