Prune
- Perennial plants can be pruned back to allow for a healthy growth in spring, but any new growth should be left alone
- Apple and pear trees should being to be pruned, as this is best done when they’re dormant
- Any ornamental grasses should be cut to around an inch before new growth begins
Plant
- Bare root roses can be planted now in preparation for summer; plant them in a sunny spot for greater colour
- Raspberry canes can be planted on well-drained soil in sunny areas
- Fruit trees can be planted until the end of February, while they are still dormant. Wait until ground is thawed and weather is mild.
- Salad leaves can be planted, either in the house or in a greenhouse. They will grow more slowly than in spring, but this gives a good head start
Harvest
- Parsnips and leeks can start to be harvested
Miscellaneous
- Cover soil with a cloche to warm up for a few weeks in preparation for planting early peas
- Early potatoes can begin to be sprouted in a bright frost free place
- Shred your Christmas tree (if real) and add to the compost
- Mist indoor plants regularly to combat dry air from central heating
- Cut back any damaged stems, old leaves and faded flowers from plants to prevent them leaching nutrients and spreading disease
- Force rhubarb by covering the crown with a bucket. This can be harvested after eight weeks