February in your garden
Snowdrops and other bulbs are a reminder that spring is near, and warmer spells allow the gardener to prepare the ground for planting.
The weather this month
If the wind is in the east, winter is likely to remain for a further spell of some weeks. February is often the coldest month of the year and the sun does little to warm the cold winds if they are from east and the cold continent of Europe. If the weather comes from the west it is milder but this also brings rain.
Roses
Complete planting, but not if the soil is wet and sticky or if there is frost or snow on the surface. I conditions are unsuitable for planting, heal the roses in and plant later when conditions improve.
Hardy herbaceous plants
Clear dead tops of plants if not already done. Top dress established borders with fertiliser such as bone meal. Prepare new beds and borders for planting later in the spring.
Flowers from seed
Plan spring planting programme. Lightly fork beds prepared for annuals and work in some fertiliser.
Bulbs
Bring in the bulbs for indoor flowering as they become ready. Plant those which have finished flowering in odd corners of the garden.
Water plants and pools
Continue to protect pools against ice. Remove weeds from the bog garden.
Trees and shrubs
Continue planting deciduous trees and shrubs in favourable weather. Firm any that may have been loosened by frost. Cut off any low branches from garden trees that may be in your way in summer.
Veg
Sow early peas and broad beans. Buy or order potato tubers for early crops and sprout them in a light frost free room or shed. Plant shallots if ground is suitable. Plan and order veg seed for sowing later. Sow onion seeds under glass for planting out later.
General tasks
Have a soil test carried out in a new garden. This can be done by a professional or do it yourself with a soil testing kit.
Plants to enjoy this month
Crocus, Snowdrops, Iris, Garrya, Daphne, Hamamelis, Jasminum, Mahonia, Aucuba, Pyracantha, Erica (Winter Heather), Conifers and Skimmia
If you have any gardening questions please send them to gordonsnursery@cynonvalley.co.uk and we will try and answer them for you.
