At least we have passed the shortest day of the year and can look actively forward to the Spring. At this time of year, you can see the basic structure of your garden, and this makes it easier to see what changes you may want to make in the coming year.
Tree Pruning
This is the perfect time of the year to prune apple and pear trees to create a well-shaped and productive tree. But do check carefully how to do this kind of pruning as you need to guide the trees growth without giving it too much of a shock all at once.
Improving lawn drainage
When you walk on your lawn does it squelch in certain areas? If so, it would be a good idea to spike those areas to improve lawn drainage. Make a note of the areas that require attention and when the ground dries a little go over the area with a garden fork and push it in about 15cms deep and wiggle it about to open the soil up. As soon as you have completed a small area brush in some sharp sand (never builders’ sand).
Remove fallen leaves from lawns as if left the grass underneath them may die as the leaves rot down. Disperse worm casts on lawns with a soft brush.
Roses
Plant bare root roses if the soil is not soggy or frozen or alternatively keep in moist compost until weather conditions improve.
Greenhouses
Thoroughly clean greenhouses inside and out. Cleaning the glass is most important to allow maximum light in which will make a big difference to germination. Good hygiene is important to get rid of pests and disease.
Chilies
For those of us impatient to get going, some seeds can be sown in January including chilies. Sprinkle seed on a seed tray of compost and place on a heated mat in the greenhouse. It will take 2-3 weeks to germinate and then another 3-4 weeks until they are big enough to prick out into individual pots.
Poinsettia
Poinsettia is known for its red and green foliage and is widely used at Christmas. It is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. A plant in good condition that receives good care can flower for 2 to 3 months, but most flower for 4 to 6 weeks before the flowers start to fall. To get the best from them grow in bright, indirect light, in a draught free place with a temperature of 13-15 degree C. Water sparingly when the surface of the compost has started to dry out. Mist with water regularly to increase humidity to keep them looking their best for longer.
Advice on buying:
- Make sure the poinsettia is in good condition and no leaves are wilting as this may indicate it has been stored in conditions that are too cold for it
- Avoid buying poinsettias that have been displayed near open doors as the conditions will again have been too cold
- Wrap your plant up or cover with a plastic bag to protect it