Maintenance

General garden improvements

February is a good time for doing all sorts of maintenance in the garden, like constructing or improving paths and patios, or erecting a fence, pergola or play equipment for children.

Water

vergreen trees and shrubs continue to lose moisture in the winter. Therefore it is best to water them during long dry spells if it is not freezing and the ground is frost-free. The plants find it difficult to draw up moisture if the ground is frozen. This can result in them drying out. If there is a hard frost forecast you might consider covering more tender plants with a garden fleece.

Weeding

Weeds may already have grown significantly, particularly annual meadow grass and other annuals. It is best to remove them by hand as hoeing can damage the roots of your ornamental plants.

Clean out nesting boxes

A thorough clean ensures that any surviving vermin is removed from the box so that it does not bother the new hatchlings.

Restore or improve your lawn

• You can start restoring the lawn from the end of February.
• Turf can be laid during frost-free weather and you can seed patches.
• If a particular ‘track’ keeps getting worn in your lawn it might be worth laying something like stepping stones.

Remove trees

This is the best time to remove trees. Leave the removal of big trees to a professional/tree surgeon. They have the right equipment and know precisely how to avoid any damage.