Your what to do now guide for February…

February’s Garden To-Do List: A Dance Between Frost and Spring

1. Awaken the Soil – Give your beds a gentle tickle with a fork to aerate the earth, but be mindful not to disturb the slumbering roots beneath.

2. Sow with Hope – Indoors, coax early seeds to life: tomatoes, chillies, and sweet peas will respond well to your encouragement (and perhaps a quiet pep talk).

3. Tidy, but Not Too Much – Clear away spent leaves and debris, but leave some hidey-holes for helpful critters who are still snoozing through the cold.

4. Prune with Precision – It’s time to give wisteria, winter jasmine, and fruit trees a haircut. Be bold but kind—think sculptor rather than butcher.

5. Encourage Early Bloomers – Snowdrops and crocuses will reward your admiration, while hellebores nod in quiet approval.

6. Prepare for the Grand Seed Swap – Whether trading treasures with friends or plotting for future abundance, gather your seeds and dream of warmer days.

7. Mulch and Protect – A warm blanket of compost will be much appreciated by roses, fruit trees, and any plants shivering in their boots.

8. Welcome the Birds – Keep feeders stocked and birdbaths unfrozen, for the feathery chorus will soon be rehearsing their spring symphonies.

9. Plot and Scheme – Sketch out grand plans for your vegetable beds and flower borders. A little doodling now will prevent much head-scratching later.

10. Whisper to the Rhubarb – If you fancy an early crop, pop a forcer (or an upturned bucket) over your rhubarb crowns and let the magic unfold.

11. Check for Signs of Mischief – Slugs and snails may already be stirring, so deploy barriers, beer traps, or a firm but fair word of warning.

12. Breathe in the Promise of Spring – Take a moment to enjoy the crisp air, the lengthening days, and the quiet thrill of a garden on the cusp of awakening.