Gardening in the UK in February: A Comprehensive Guide

Weather in February

Increasing daylight hours mark a significant change from January, stimulating early growth in bulbs and perennials. However, frost remains a risk, particularly early in the month. Protect tender plants with horticultural fleece or cloches when needed.

Rainfall often leads to waterlogged soil, making garden access challenging. Assess ground conditions before working to avoid soil compaction. If weather permits, improve drainage systems or create raised beds for better resilience.

February presents excellent opportunities for indoor seed sowing, especially for chillies, peppers, and early tomatoes. Use greenhouses or sunny windowsills to give seedlings a strong start before outdoor transplanting after the last frost.

This month also suits pruning deciduous shrubs and trees, encouraging healthy spring growth. Choose dry days for these tasks to ensure optimal results.

By understanding and working with February’s weather patterns, gardeners can maximise this crucial preparation time and set their gardens up for success in the coming growing season.

General Considerations for Gardening in February

February is a crucial month for gardeners in the UK, marking the transition from the depths of winter to the beginnings of spring. Understanding the general considerations for gardening during this time can set the stage for a thriving garden in the warmer months ahead.

Weather Awareness

February often brings unpredictable weather patterns. Gardeners must stay alert to fluctuations in temperature and rainfall. While daytime temperatures range from 1°C to 8°C, unexpected cold spells can still occur, leading to frost. It’s essential to monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to cover tender plants with horticultural fleece or cloches to protect them from potential frostbite.

Soil Management

The winter months often leave the soil wetter, and February can be no exception. Waterlogged soil can hinder growth and lead to compaction problems. Before working the soil, ensure it’s not too wet. A simple test involves squeezing a handful of soil; if it crumbles, it’s ready to be worked, but if it forms a ball, wait until it dries out a bit. Add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and drainage.

Sowing and Planting

February serves as a fantastic time to plan your planting strategies. For vegetable gardeners, now is the moment to start sowing seeds indoors. Consider varieties like chillies, peppers, and early tomatoes. A greenhouse or a sunny windowsill provides the perfect environment for these young plants. Please make sure to mark your calendars for when to transplant them outdoors, taking care to avoid late frosts.

Pruning Duties

Many deciduous shrubs and trees benefit from pruning during February. Focus on removing dead or damaged wood, which helps encourage fresh growth in spring. This practice not only maintains the shape of the plants but also improves airflow, significantly reducing the chances of disease. Always use clean, sharp tools for the best results.

Lawn Care

If your garden includes a lawn, February is an ideal time for maintenance. As temperatures warm slightly, the grass begins to awaken from winter dormancy. Raking up debris like leaves or twigs allows sunlight to reach the grass and encourages healthy growth. You can also use this time to aerate your lawn, promoting better drainage.

Planning for Colour

Finally, February is an excellent month to plan your ornamental garden. Consider adding spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips, which can provide beautiful bursts of colour. I want you to know that preparing your flowerbeds now will ensure a vibrant display as winter fades away.

In conclusion, February is a vital month for UK gardeners. By staying aware of weather conditions, managing your soil, planning planting schedules, completing necessary pruning, caring for your lawn, and thinking about colour, you can set the groundwork for a flourishing garden once the warmer months arrive. Embrace February as a time for preparation, and watch your garden thrive!

Lawns

Avoiding Lawn Damage

In February, it’s crucial to avoid lawn damage from frost and snow. The grass may still be dormant or just beginning to wake up, so it’s essential to minimise foot traffic on the lawn, especially when it’s frosty or wet. Walking on frozen grass can cause compaction and damage the grass blades, leading to bare patches and poor growth in the spring. If you need to access certain garden areas, try to use stepping stones or temporary paths to minimise damage.

Managing Moss

Clearing debris and managing moss are essential tasks in February. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris can smother the grass, blocking out light and air, leading to moss development and other problems. Regularly rake up leaves and either compost them or use them as mulch in different garden areas. If moss has taken hold over the winter, consider applying a moss killer towards the end of the month. Once the moss has turned black, rake it out with a spring tine rake to allow the grass to breathe and prepare for the first mow.

Aeration

Aerating and preparing for spring growth are essential for lawns in February, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging. Spiking the lawn with a garden fork or using a mechanical aerator can help improve drainage and reduce compaction. This allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil, promoting healthier grass growth. Consider applying a lawn dressing to improve soil structure and drainage if the soil is compacted.

First Mow of the Season

If the weather conditions allow, the first mow of the season can be done in late February. Choose a dry day when the grass is not too wet or frosty, and set the mower blades higher than usual to avoid scalping the lawn. Mowing the lawn helps to remove dead grass and encourages new growth. However, if the weather remains cold and wet, waiting until March for the first mow is better.

Roses

Winter Protection

Mulching to protect from the cold weather is still essential for roses in February, especially in colder regions. If you haven’t already done so, ensure that the roots are well insulated by applying a thick layer of mulch, such as compost or well-rotted manure, around the base of the plants. This mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide insulation against temperature fluctuations. Consider providing additional protection in areas prone to late frosts, such as wrapping the stems with horticultural fleece or hessian.

Pruning Roses

Pruning roses in late February is one of the key tasks for this month. Taking out some branches encourages healthy growth and improves the structure of the plant. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. Then, cut back the remaining healthy stems to just above an outward-facing bud, which encourages the plant to grow outward and improves air circulation. For hybrid tea and floribunda roses, prune back to about 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) above ground level. Climbing roses can also be pruned, focusing on removing any weak or crossing stems and tying new growth to the support.

Preparing for the Growing Season

Preparing roses for the growing season involves ensuring they have the proper nutrients and conditions to thrive. Once you’ve completed pruning, consider applying a balanced fertiliser around the base of the plants to boost nutrients as they start to grow. Water the roses well after fertilising, and watch the weather forecast to protect new growth from late frosts.

Herbaceous Plants

Herbaceous plants are the beating heart of a colourful garden border. In February, while winter lingers, the first signs of spring stir. It’s the perfect time to prepare your herbaceous perennials for a strong, healthy growing season. With some planning and care, this month, you’ll set the stage for a brilliant display in just a few weeks.

Start with a Winter Tidy-Up

If you didn’t cut back your herbaceous plants in autumn, February is an ideal time to do it. Remove old, dead stems and spent foliage from last year to make way for fresh growth. Be careful not to damage emerging shoots pushing through the soil already. Use clean, sharp secateurs and clear away debris to reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

Divide and Conquer

Mature clumps of herbaceous perennials such as daylilies, hostas, and astrantias benefit from lifting and dividing every few years. February is a good month to tackle this, especially in milder areas. Choose a day when the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Replant the healthiest divisions immediately to refresh your borders and share extras with fellow gardeners.

Feed the Soil, Not Just the Plants

Before new growth begins, improve your soil with a generous mulch of compost or well-rotted manure. This boosts fertility, improves structure, and helps retain moisture later in the season. Spread mulch around (but not over) the crown of your herbaceous plants to protect emerging shoots from cold snaps.

Check Supports and Labels

Now is a good time for you to check your plant supports. Replace any broken stakes and plan where you’ll need extra support for tall perennials like delphiniums and peonies. It’s also wise to replace missing or faded plant labels so you can track what’s where as the border fills out again.

Plan for Colour and Structure

Browse seed catalogues or online nurseries and consider adding new varieties to your herbaceous border this year. Look for contrasting heights, textures, and colours to keep the display interesting from early summer to autumn. Planting well-matched companions ensures a vibrant and balanced garden scene.

Dahlias and Bulbs

Preparing Dahlia Tubers for Planting

Preparing dahlia tubers for planting is an essential task in February. If you’ve stored dahlia tubers over the winter, now is the time to check them for any signs of rot or damage. Remove any soft, discoloured, or mouldy tubers to prevent the problem from spreading. In warmer regions, you can pot up the tubers indoors to give them a head start before planting them outside in the spring. Plant the tubers in pots filled with fresh compost and water lightly, and place them in a bright, frost-free location. Keep an eye on the weather and only plant them outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.

Early Planting of Summer Bulbs

Checking stored bulbs and early planting can be done in February, especially for bulbs such as lilies and begonias that benefit from an early start. Please look at stored bulbs for any signs of rot or pests, and discard any damaged ones. If the conditions are right, you can start planting these bulbs in pots indoors or in a greenhouse to give them a head start before transferring them to the garden later in the spring. Please make sure the pots have good drainage, and water the bulbs sparingly until they start to grow.

Late Planting of Spring Flowering Bulbs

Planting spring-flowering bulbs is still possible in early February, particularly in milder regions where the ground is workable. The flowering time will be later, but the bulbs will be established for next year. Bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses can still be planted if you haven’t already done so. Plant the bulbs at about three times their height, with the pointed end facing upwards. Water the bulbs well after planting, and consider applying a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect them from frost.

Pest and Disease Control

Preventing bulb rot and pests is crucial for ensuring healthy growth. Slugs, snails, and other pests can be a problem for newly emerging shoots, so use organic pest controls, such as slug pellets or barriers, to protect your bulbs. Water the bulbs sparingly, as overwatering can lead to rot. If you’re planting bulbs in containers, ensure they are raised off the ground to prevent waterlogging and frost damage.

Flowers from Seed

Sowing Hardy Annuals and Perennials

Sowing hardy annuals and perennials indoors is a popular task in February. Flowers such as sweet peas, larkspur, and delphiniums can be sown in pots or seed trays filled with good-quality seed compost and placed in a cold frame, an unheated greenhouse, or a sheltered spot indoors. These plants benefit from being sown early, as they will establish strong roots over the winter, leading to more vigorous growth and earlier blooms in the spring. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves, pinch out the tips to encourage bushier growth.

Starting sweet peas and other early bloomers indoors is a great way to get a jump on the growing season. Sweet peas, in particular, benefit from being sown in February, as they will establish strong roots and be ready to plant out as soon as the weather warms up. Sow the seeds in deep pots or root trainers to give the roots room to grow. Keep the pots in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse, and water sparingly until the seedlings are established. Other early bloomers, such as cosmos and marigolds, can also be started indoors in February for an early start to the growing season.

Caring for Seedlings

Once your seeds have germinated and the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, thinning them out is essential to prevent overcrowding. Thin them to the recommended spacing on the seed packet, usually when the seedlings have two sets of true leaves. Use the thinned-out seedlings to fill gaps in other parts of the garden or give them to friends and neighbours.

Preparing Beds

Preparing beds for outdoor sowing is another essential task in February. Clear any remaining plant debris and weeds from the beds, and add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil structure and fertility. If you plan to sow seeds directly into the ground in the spring, consider covering the beds with black plastic or horticultural fleece to keep the soil warm and prevent weeds from taking hold. This will help create the ideal conditions for your seeds to germinate when you’re ready to sow them outdoors.

Check out the flower seeds that can be sown in February here.

Vegetable Garden

As February sets in across the UK, gardeners can feel the anticipation of spring. This month serves as a bridge between winter’s chill and the vibrant growing season ahead. While the garden may still appear dormant, there are plenty of tasks to engage in that lay the groundwork for a fruitful vegetable garden. Here’s how you can make the most of your garden in February.

Sowing Indoor Seeds

If itching to start gardening, get indoors and sow seeds for early crops. This is the ideal time to plant chillies, peppers, tomatoes, and aubergines in seed trays or pots. Place them on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Use quality seed compost and keep the soil moist. Soon, you’ll see small sprouts, providing a thrilling start to your gardening season.

Prepare Outdoor Seedbeds

You can prepare outdoor seedbeds once the ground is workable, meaning they are not frozen or waterlogged. Clear away any weeds and debris, then loosen the soil with a fork to improve drainage. You can start sowing hardy varieties directly, such as broad beans and early carrots, particularly if you live in a milder area. For those growing in heavier soils, wait until mid-March for better conditions.

Planting Garlic and Shallots

February is a great month to plant garlic and shallots. If you haven’t already, plant them in well-drained soil where they can receive plenty of sunshine. Space them apart to allow for healthy growth. Garlic loves to thrive in fertile soil, so add compost to enhance nutrient levels.

Protecting Against Frost

Protect your young plants from late frosts because the weather can still be unpredictable. On freezing nights, cover outdoor seeds with horticultural fleece or cloches. This simple measure keeps your plants cosy and can significantly improve their survival.

Maintenance and Weeding

Use this month to get ahead on weeding and garden maintenance. Clear away any last season’s plant debris to reduce pests and diseases. Also, check stored crops like potatoes and carrots, removing any signs of rot.

Alpines

Winter Care of Alpines

Protecting alpines from winter wet is crucial in February, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall. Alpines are adapted to thrive in well-drained conditions, and too much moisture can lead to root rot, particularly as the days become shorter and the soil stays damp for more extended periods. Please ensure your alpines are planted in well-drained soil, and consider adding horticultural grit or sand to improve drainage if necessary. In areas prone to heavy rainfall, you might want to cover the plants with a cloche to keep the worst weather off.

Mulching

Mulching and insulating crowns are another essential task for alpines in February. While many alpines are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures, they can be vulnerable to frost heave, where repeated freezing and thawing of the soil can push the plants out of the ground. Apply a layer of grit or sand around the base of the plants to help prevent this. This mulch also helps protect the plants’ crowns from frost and reduces the risk of rot.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Managing winter pests is generally straightforward with alpines, as their tough nature makes them less susceptible to problems. However, it’s still important to watch for common issues such as aphids or fungal diseases, particularly during wet weather. Regularly inspect your plants and remove any affected parts promptly to prevent the spread of disease.

Water Plants and Ponds

Prevent Freezing

Preventing pond freezing and maintaining water quality are key tasks in February. As temperatures drop, ponds can freeze over, preventing oxygen from entering the water and endangering fish and aquatic plants. If your pond freezes, carefully pour warm (not hot) water onto a small area to create an opening. Avoid smashing the ice with a hammer or heavy object, as this can shock and harm the fish. To prevent the pond from freezing completely, consider installing a pond heater or floating device to keep a small area ice-free.

Protecting fish and aquatic plants from freezing is crucial during the winter months. Ensure that the pond is deep enough to prevent it from freezing solid. Move tender aquatic plants, such as water lilies, to deeper parts of the pond or bring them indoors to a frost-free location, such as a greenhouse. For more delicate fish, consider adding a pond cover or netting to protect them from predators and falling debris. If the pond is in an exposed area, installing windbreaks can help reduce the wind chill and prevent the water from freezing as quickly.

Prepare for Spring

Planning for spring pond care involves ensuring your pond is ready for the warmer months. Regularly check the water clarity and use a pond vacuum or net to remove any debris that may have accumulated, such as fallen leaves. If necessary, consider adding barley straw or a commercial pond treatment to help control algae and maintain clear water. Reducing the feeding of fish as the water temperature drops is also essential, as fish become less active and require less food in colder weather.

Greenhouses

Insulation and Temperature Control

Insulating and managing temperature in the greenhouse is one of the main tasks in February. Keeping the greenhouse warm enough to protect your plants from frost is essential as temperatures drop. Consider adding insulation, such as bubble wrap, to the inside of the greenhouse to help retain heat. If your greenhouse is heated, check the heating system to ensure it’s working correctly before the cold weather sets in. Set the thermostat to maintain a minimum temperature that suits your growing plants, typically around 5-10°C (41-50°F) for most tender plants.

Sowing

Sowing early vegetables and flowers is a great way to make the most of your greenhouse in February. Hardy vegetables like winter lettuce, spinach, and radishes can be sown in pots or directly into the greenhouse borders. These crops will grow slowly through the winter, providing fresh produce when outdoor gardening is limited. Use fresh compost and ensure the pots have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. You can also plant flowers, such as sweet peas and early spring bulbs, in pots to force them for an early display.

Light, Humidity and Ventilation

Ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of excess humidity, which can lead to fungal diseases. On milder days, open the vents or doors of the greenhouse to allow fresh air to circulate. This helps to reduce humidity and prevent problems such as grey mould (Botrytis) or powdery mildew. If your greenhouse has an automatic ventilation system, you should check that it functions correctly and adjust the settings as needed.

Pests and Diseases

Pest and disease management remains essential in the greenhouse, even as the growing season winds down. Warm, humid conditions can lead to problems such as whitefly, aphids, or spider mites. Please regularly review your plants for signs of pests or disease, and take action as soon as you notice any issues. Organic treatments, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil, can control pests without harming beneficial insects. Ensure good air circulation in the greenhouse by opening vents on warmer days to reduce humidity and prevent fungal problems.

Shrubs

February might still feel wintry, but it offers a fantastic opportunity to get ahead with shrub care in your garden. While many plants remain dormant, this quieter time allows you to shape, tidy, and prepare your shrubs before the spring growth rush begins. By tackling a few key tasks now, you’ll boost the health and appearance of your shrubs and enjoy a more vibrant garden later in the year.

Prune Summer-Flowering Shrubs Now

Now is the ideal time to prune shrubs that flower during the growth of new seasons, such as buddleia, lavatera, spiraea japonica, and hardy fuchsias. Prune them back hard to encourage vigorous new shoots and a better display come summer. Use clean, sharp secateurs and aim to create an open structure that allows light and air to reach the centre of the plant. Always remove dead, damaged or crossing branches.

Avoid Pruning Spring-Flowering Shrubs

Leave spring-flowering shrubs like forsythia, camellia, and chaenomeles alone for now. These set their flower buds the previous year, and pruning in February will remove this year’s blooms. Please wait until after they’ve flowered before reaching for the secateurs.

Check for Signs of Trouble

Look closely at your shrubs for any signs of disease, such as dieback, blackened stems, or mould. Remove and dispose of affected growth to prevent the spread. Check the plant base for weeds or moss that may compete for nutrients. Give the surrounding soil a gentle forkover to improve drainage and airflow.

Feed and Mulch for a Head Start

Apply a slow-release shrub feed around the base to help your shrubs wake up strong. Follow with a mulch of compost or well-rotted manure to lock in moisture and improve soil quality. Avoid piling mulch against the main stems, as this can encourage rot.

Plan New Additions

February is also a great time to plant new shrubs, as long as the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Bare-root shrubs are widely available and offer excellent value. Soak their roots before planting and water them well afterwards.

Trees

February is a key month for tree care in the UK. While trees may look dormant above ground, they’re quietly preparing for the season ahead. You set them up for a strong, healthy start come spring by giving them a little attention now. Whether you’ve got ornamental trees, fruit trees or newly planted specimens, a few simple jobs in February will make a big difference later.

Prune Fruit Trees and Deciduous Varieties

Now’s the perfect time to prune apple and pear trees while they remain dormant. Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches and aim to create an open structure that allows light and air to circulate. Use sharp, clean secateurs or loppers, and avoid cutting into frosted wood. Don’t yet prune stone fruits like plums or cherries—wait until summer to avoid introducing silver leaf disease.

Check for Damage and Support Young Trees

Winter storms can damage branches or loosen young trees. Please look over all trees closely. Cleanly remove any broken limbs and check tree ties, stakes, and supports. Loosen ties that have become too tight and replace any that no longer provide support. A well-anchored young tree grows stronger and resists wind damage more easily.

Mulch and Feed for Healthy Growth

Spread a generous layer of mulch—such as composted bark or well-rotted manure—around the base of trees, avoiding direct contact with the trunk. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil quality. Apply a general-purpose feed to boost nutrients ahead of spring. February is an ideal time to nourish your trees before growth resumes.

Plant New Bare Root Trees

If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, February is a great time to plant bare-root trees. Soak the roots before planting, and dig a hole wide and deep enough for the root system. Firm the soil around the tree and water it well. Add a stake and tie if needed for support. Bare-root trees are budget-friendly and settle in well while still dormant.

Climbers

Climbing plants bring vertical interest, colour and structure to gardens across the UK. From clematis and honeysuckle to wisteria and climbing roses, these plants need a little care in February to thrive through spring and summer. While they may look quiet now, this is the perfect time to set them up for a strong season of growth.

Prune and Shape Climbing Plants

February is ideal for pruning many deciduous climbers before new growth begins. Trim late-flowering clematis (Group 3 types) by cutting stems back to healthy buds about 20–30cm from the ground. This encourages fresh, strong growth and abundant flowers later in the year. Prune climbing roses now—remove dead or weak stems, shorten side shoots, and tie in long canes to keep them secure and shaped.

Check Supports and Structures

Inspect trellises, wires, pergolas, and arches for wear and tear. Wind and weather may loosen fixings or damage supports. Make any repairs now before climbers start growing again. Re-tie any loose stems and add new ties where necessary. Good support helps prevent damage and ensures plants grow in the right direction.

Mulch and Feed for Healthy Growth

Mulching around the base of climbing plants protects roots, locks in moisture, and improves soil structure. Use organic mulch such as well-rotted manure or bark, keeping it a few centimetres away from stems. Apply a balanced feed to boost your plants before active growth kicks in. This is especially helpful for hungry plants like wisteria and roses.

Plant New Climbers

February is also a good time to plant bare-root or container-grown climbers, as long as the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Choose a sunny or part-shaded spot and dig a hole twice the size of the rootball. Add compost to enrich the soil, and water thoroughly after planting. Angle the plant slightly so it leans towards its support structure.

Rhododendrons and Azaleas

February might feel like a quiet month in the garden, but it’s the perfect time to give your rhododendrons and azaleas a little attention. These acid-loving shrubs reward early-season care with an explosion of colour in spring. Whether you’re growing them in borders or containers, a few thoughtful tasks now will help them thrive when the warmer weather arrives.

Check Soil and Mulch to Keep Roots Happy

Rhododendrons and azaleas prefer acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If you haven’t already mulched, now’s the time. Spread a layer of ericaceous compost, leaf mould or pine needles around the base of each plant. This helps insulate roots, suppress weeds and maintain the acidity these shrubs need. Keep mulch a few centimetres away from the main stem to avoid rot.

Water During Dry Spells

While February often brings plenty of rain, some regions may experience dry weather. If the ground looks parched or your containers feel dry, give your rhododendrons and azaleas a light watering. Avoid waterlogging the soil—these plants like consistent moisture, not soggy conditions.

Prune Lightly Where Needed

Most rhododendrons and azaleas don’t require heavy pruning, but February is a great time to tidy up. Remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches. Use sharp secateurs to make clean cuts above a bud or branch junction. If a shrub has become leggy or overcrowded, thin it slightly to encourage bushier growth.

Inspect for Pests and Diseases

Look closely at your plants and check for early signs of trouble, such as distorted leaves, bud blast or sooty mould. Remove affected parts straight away and clear fallen leaves to reduce fungal problems. Healthy plants resist pests better, so good hygiene goes a long way.

Feed for Future Blooms

Start preparing for spring flowering by applying a slow-release ericaceous feed towards the end of the month if the weather’s mild. This gives your plants the nutrients they need to support flower and leaf production as growth begins again.

Hedges

February is the perfect time to give your garden hedges some attention. While growth is still dormant, preparing for a flourishing spring is an ideal window. Whether you’ve got formal box hedging, native mixed hedgerows, or flowering varieties, now’s the time to tidy up, assess their health, and set them up for success. A bit of care in late winter makes all the difference when the growing season begins.

Prune Before the Nesting Season

Get out your secateurs or hedge trimmers before birds start nesting. Many species begin nesting from March, so February is the safest time to prune hedges without disturbing wildlife. Focus on light shaping and removing any damaged or straggly growth. For formal hedges, aim for clean lines and a balanced shape, keeping the base slightly wider than the top to let light reach all parts.

Plant New Hedges or Fill Gaps

If you’re planning a new hedge, February is ideal for planting bare-root varieties. The soil is usually moist and workable, which gives roots the best chance to establish before spring. Native species like hawthorn, blackthorn or dog rose create excellent wildlife-friendly hedges. If your existing hedge has gaps, fill them with young plants to keep the structure dense and healthy.

Mulch and Feed for Strong Growth

Apply mulch at the base of your hedges to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and nourish the soil. Use composted bark, well-rotted manure or straw. Keep mulch a few centimetres away from stems. If your hedge looks tired, a slow-release feed will boost root health and encourage strong spring growth.

Check for Pests and Structural Issues

Walk along your hedges and check for signs of disease, pests, or frost damage. Remove affected stems and clear any fallen leaves or debris that could harbour problems. Look for signs of wind damage or loose plants and firm up anything that’s leaning or unstable. Re-tie supports and replace damaged stakes.

Fruit

February may feel like the depths of winter, but it’s a brilliant time to prepare your fruit bushes and trees for a productive year ahead. A little attention now pays dividends later. With plants still dormant, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to prune, plant, and protect. Getting a head start will set the stage for healthy growth and a bumper crop when the season turns.

Prune Fruit Trees for Shape and Strength

Now’s the time to prune apple, pear and plum trees while still dormant. Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches to improve airflow and structure. Aim to keep the centre open and airy. A well-shaped tree looks good, produces better fruit, and reduces disease risk. Use clean, sharp secateurs and loppers and cut just above a healthy outward-facing bud.

Avoid pruning stone fruits like cherries or apricots just yet — wait until summer when the risk of infection is lower.

Plant Bare Root Fruit Bushes and Trees

February is ideal for planting bare-root fruit trees and bushes such as blackcurrants, gooseberries, raspberries, and apples. The soil is moist and workable, which helps roots establish quickly. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Soak the roots before planting, and make sure the graft point is above the soil line. Firm the soil around the plant and water it in well.

Mulch around the base with well-rotted manure to conserve moisture and keep weeds down, but leave a gap around the stem to prevent rot.

Feed and Protect for a Strong Start

Fruit plants will soon wake up from their winter rest, so give them a boost with a balanced slow-release feed. This supports strong root growth and early bud development. Apply mulch, like compost or well-rotted manure, to enrich the soil and lock in moisture.

Keep an eye on late frosts — have horticultural fleece ready to protect vulnerable blossoms in early varieties.

Houseplants

While February still feels wintry outside, indoors, your houseplants are quietly preparing for the growing season. Although growth may seem slow, your houseplants need attention to keep them happy and healthy. By giving them the right care now, you’ll help them thrive as the days grow longer. This is a fantastic time to check their condition, refresh their environment, and prepare for spring.

Let in the Light and Adjust Positioning

Natural light levels remain low in February, so help your houseplants make the most of what’s available. Clean the windows to remove grime and let more sunshine through. Wipe any dust off your plants’ leaves so they can absorb light more efficiently.

If plants are not getting enough light, move them closer to windows, but avoid placing them too close to cold, draughty panes. Rotate them weekly to encourage even growth and prevent leaning.

Watch Watering and Avoid Overfeeding

Houseplants grow more slowly in winter and need less water. Always check the soil before watering — if it still feels moist, wait a few more days. Overwatering in February can lead to root rot and fungal issues.

Hold off on feeding until March unless your plants show clear signs of growth. Most indoor plants don’t need a feed while they’re still in their resting phase. If needed, choose a gentle houseplant feed and use it sparingly.

Refresh and Rejuvenate

Could you check whether your plants need repotting? If roots poke out from the bottom of the pot, or growth looks stunted, it might be time to move them into a slightly larger container. Use fresh houseplant compost to boost nutrients and improve drainage.

Trim away dead or yellowing leaves to keep plants tidy and prevent pests. Check regularly for common issues like fungus gnats, scale insects, or spider mites, and deal with them promptly using available treatments.

Patios

February might still feel cold and grey, but it’s the perfect time to give your patio some love. A bit of planning and light maintenance now will pay off when spring arrives. Whether you grow pots of seasonal colour or use your patio as a quiet retreat, a February refresh helps set the stage for a thriving, welcoming outdoor space.

Let’s explore a few cheerful, practical jobs you can do on your patio this month.

Clean and Clear Your Patio Area

Start with a good tidy-up. Sweep away leaves, twigs, and other winter debris. A stiff brush works wonders on algae or moss, especially slippery paving slabs. You can also use a patio cleaner if the surface needs extra help – just choose an eco-friendly product if your pots are nearby.

Check for cracked or loose paving stones and make a note to repair them when the weather warms. Keeping your patio neat now creates a safe and pleasant space that’s easier to enjoy as the seasons change.

Refresh Containers and Plan Ahead

Inspect your patio pots. Remove any faded or frost-damaged plants and trim back tired foliage. Top up compost in containers and remove weeds that may have crept in.

Now is a great time to plan. Think about which pots need new plants for spring and order early if you can. Hardy plants like violas, pansies, and hellebores add a touch of winter colour and cope well with February’s chill.

You can also start preparing pots for spring bulbs that didn’t make it into the ground in autumn — plant them now and place them in a sheltered corner.

Check Furniture and Add Finishing Touches

If you’ve left your garden furniture outside, clean it. Wipe down surfaces and check for rust or damage. Even if it’s too chilly to sit out, it feels great to see the space coming together.

Add lanterns, fairy lights, or evergreen pots to create atmosphere. A small, sheltered patio can feel instantly brighter with a few finishing touches — and they’ll lift your mood too.

February always feels like a quiet promise in the garden – still cold and unpredictable, but a real sense of momentum is building beneath the surface. I always find it uplifting to see the first green tips of daffodils pushing through, no matter how grey the skies. This is the month I lean into planning – seed packets are spread across the kitchen table, and I’m scribbling notes about what worked last year and what I want to try next. Starting chillies and tomatoes indoors gives me that hopeful kickstart I need, even if it’s just a few pots on the windowsill. And pruning on a crisp, clear day? One of my favourite tasks – there’s something so satisfying about shaping the season ahead. February may not be showy, but it’s quietly powerful. Get things right now, and you’ll feel the rewards all year.

Conclusion

As February draws to a close, there’s a quiet sense of anticipation in gardens across the UK. Though the days remain short and the weather still feels brisk, signs of life are beginning to stir. Snowdrops emerge, buds swell on shrubs, and birds grow busier by the day. This is the month when gardeners prepare the ground—both literally and figuratively—for the busy season ahead.

Taking time now to tackle essential jobs will help your garden thrive when the warmer months arrive. Whether you’ve got flower beds, fruit bushes, a patio full of pots, or a small lawn, February is full of opportunity.

Final Tasks for a Flourishing Garden

Start by tidying up your borders and beds. Remove dead stems and leaves from herbaceous plants and mulch around them with compost or well-rotted manure. This feeds the soil and keeps roots cosy until spring. If you grow fruit trees or bushes, finish pruning now and check for signs of disease or damage. A little winter care now supports a healthy harvest later.

For those growing shrubs, hedges, or trees, now is your last chance to prune deciduous varieties before sap rises. Remember to cut out dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation. For climbers, gently tidy and train new growth so they’re ready to burst into action as temperatures rise.

Remember to feed your soil. Add organic matter to veg patches and raised beds, and plan where your spring sowings will go. You can even start some seeds indoors or in a cold frame for an early jump on the season.

Houseplants also need attention. Move them to brighter spots and reduce watering slightly if they’re still dormant. Wipe the dust off their leaves and remove dead growth to keep them healthy and happy.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

Gardening in February sets the tone for a vibrant spring. It’s the month of preparation, planning, and quiet progress. Every weed pulled, every shrub pruned, and every seed packet sorted helps you step into the growing season ready and energised.

Check out the RHS Gardening in February article here.

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