Advice from Nicola

February can feel like a waiting month in the garden, but it’s actually one of the most useful times of year for preparation. A few simple, well-timed jobs now will make spring gardening easier and far more rewarding.

Here are three practical garden jobs to focus on this February, with clear steps to help you get the most from your time outdoors.

Clean, Check and Protect

Cleaning Pots and Greenhouses

Start by cleaning pots, seed trays, and greenhouse surfaces. Old compost and algae can harbour pests and diseases, which often show up just as young plants are getting established.

  • Empty pots completely and brush off loose soil
  • Wash with warm water and a small amount of disinfectant or vinegar
  • Rinse well and allow to dry before reuse

In greenhouses, clean glass or panels let in significantly more light - vital for seedlings later on. Even a quick clean on the sunniest side makes a noticeable difference.

 

Checking and Maintaining Tools

February is ideal for tool care, before the busy season begins.

  • Clean blades and metal parts with a wire brush or cloth
  • Sharpen secateurs and shears so they make clean cuts rather than tearing stems
  • Oil wooden handles to prevent splitting
  • Tighten loose bolts where needed

Well-maintained tools reduce plant damage and make pruning and digging much easier – if you require any replacements we have a great selection to choose from. 

 

Checking Winter Protection

Even hardy plants can suffer during late cold snaps.

  • Check fleece and insulation around pots and borderline-tender plants
  • Make sure covers are secure and not rubbing against stems
  • Lift pots slightly on feet or bricks so excess water can drain away

Cold, wet roots are often more damaging than frost itself.

Prepare Beds and Improve the Soil

Mulching Bare Beds

If your borders are looking empty, mulching is one of the best jobs you can do now.

  • Spread compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mould over bare soil
  • Aim for a layer around 5 cm thick
  • Keep mulch clear of plant stems to prevent rot

Mulch protects soil structure, improves fertility, and suppresses weeds before they get established in spring.

 

Preparing Raised Beds

Raised beds warm up faster than open ground, so preparing them early is worthwhile.

  • Remove weeds and old plant debris
  • Lightly fork the surface to improve drainage
  • Top up with compost if the level has dropped

Avoid digging wet soil, as this damages structure. If the soil sticks to your boots, it’s best to wait.

 

Planning the Year Ahead

Planning now helps avoid rushed decisions later.

  • Decide where vegetables will grow, keeping crop rotation in mind
  • Group plants with similar watering and feeding needs
  • Leave space for succession sowing to extend harvests
  • Protecting Bulbs from Pests and Frost

Sow Under Cover – Vegetables and Flowers

Preparing Vegetable Seed Beds

Even if outdoor sowing is still weeks away, seed beds can be prepared now.

  • Clear weeds and rake the surface to a fine texture
  • Cover beds with fleece or cloches to help warm the soil
  • This allows earlier sowing when conditions improve

What to Sow Under Cover in February

In greenhouses, cold frames, or on bright windowsills, you can begin sowing hardy crops such as:

  • Lettuce and salad leaves
  • Spinach
  • Onions and leeks
  • Broad beans
  • Early carrots (in deep containers)

Use fresh seed compost, sow thinly, and water gently. Label trays clearly with the variety and sowing date. Watch Nicola’s guide to sowing seeds here.

 

Sowing Flowers Too

Flowers are just as important as vegetables - and can also be sown now.

  • Sow sweet peas, calendula, cosmos, and other hardy annuals under cover
  • Early sowing produces stronger plants and earlier flowering
  • Flowers also support pollinators emerging in early spring

Sowing a few trays of flowers now brings colour, wildlife, and enjoyment later on.

Small Jobs, Big Rewards 

February gardening is about preparation rather than instant results. By cleaning, improving soil, and starting seeds under cover, you’re setting your garden up for a healthier, more productive spring.

At Pearsons of Duns, we have compost, seeds, fleece, tools, and plenty of advice to help you make the most of this important time of year. If you’re unsure what to tackle next, just ask - we’re always happy to help. Spring is closer than it feels!

Happy gardening,

Nicola

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