Gardening tips

Jobs this month are mostly about keeping things trim and tidy, and getting ready for the year ahead.

IN THE FLOWER GARDEN

• Prune any rose bushes that haven’t already had a prune whilst they are still dormant. Cut back to just above a bud and remove any dead or crossing branches.

• Cut back any ornamental grasses before new growth begins – cut back to within a few centimetres of the ground.

• Tidy up perennials. Cut down the old stems of plants like Sedum.

• Remove old Hellebore leaves.

• Deadhead winter flowering pansies.

IN THE FRUIT GARDEN

• Begin pruning apple and pear trees if you haven’t already done so.

• Prune blackcurrants, gooseberries and redcurrants to maintain a productive framework.

• Leave plum, cherries and apricots alone until the summer.

IN THE VEGETABLE GARDEN

• Harvest parsnips and leeks, now is the perfect time.

• Remove yellowing leaves from winter brassicas.

• Prepare the ground for early peas.