Gardening jobs to do in February

Keep your garden in the best shape possible with our monthly gardening checklists.

As we transition from winter to spring, February is an important time to start preparing your garden for the upcoming growing season. It's the perfect opportunity to get outside and begin some early preparations. Here is a list of essential gardening tasks to accomplish in the month of February:

1. Pruning

February is an ideal time to prune certain trees, shrubs, and perennials. Begin by removing any dead or damaged limbs. This will promote healthier growth once the weather warms up. Also, prune back summer-flowering shrubs, such as hydrangeas and butterfly bushes, as they bloom on new wood. Remember to research specific pruning techniques for each plant to ensure optimal results.

2. Clear Debris

Before new growth emerges, it's important to clear out any debris or fallen leaves that may have accumulated in your garden beds and borders. This will allow air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, tidying up the garden will make it easier to identify early signs of pests or disease.

3. Start Seeds Indoors

February is a great time to start seeds indoors for plants that require a longer growing season. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can be started indoors to give them a head start before transplanting them to the garden. Be sure to provide adequate light, warmth, and moisture to support their growth.

4. Prepare Soil

Take advantage of the cooler weather to prepare your garden beds for the upcoming season. Remove any weeds or grass, loosen the soil with a garden fork, and amend it with compost or organic matter. This will improve the soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content, ensuring healthier and more robust plants.

5. Mulch

Mulching is essential for conserving soil moisture, suppressing weeds, and regulating soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded leaves, around the base of trees, shrubs, and perennials. This will help protect the plants' root systems from temperature fluctuations and provide a slow release of nutrients as it breaks down.

6. Plan and Order Seeds

February is an excellent time to review your garden plans and order seeds for the upcoming season. Consider crop rotation, companion planting, and diversity in your selections. Research which varieties are most suitable for your region and desired outcomes. Ordering seeds early ensures you have the best selection and allows for timely delivery.

7. Maintain Tools and Equipment

Before the gardening season gets into full swing, take some time to inspect and clean your gardening tools and equipment. Sharpen your pruners, oil hinges and moving parts, and replace any worn-out or damaged tools. Keeping your tools in good shape will make gardening tasks easier and more efficient as the weather warms up.

8. Plan for Pest Control

Use February as an opportunity to plan ahead for pest control. Research eco-friendly pest control methods and prepare physical barriers, such as netting or fencing, to deter unwanted visitors like rabbits or deer. Consider companion planting or using insect-repelling plants to naturally deter pests. Being proactive can help minimize damage and preserve the health of your plants.

9. Weed Control

Prevent weeds from taking over your garden by staying on top of weed control early in the season. Remove any existing weeds and apply a pre-emergent weed control product to prevent new weed seeds from germinating. Avoid using chemical herbicides and opt for organic solutions whenever possible to protect beneficial insects and the environment.

10. Watering

Even though it may be cooler in February, it's essential to monitor soil moisture levels and water your plants, if necessary. Some areas may experience dry spells or indoor plants may need extra attention. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to promote stronger root systems.

By accomplishing these gardening tasks in February, you'll be well on your way to a successful and beautiful garden once spring arrives. Make the most of this transitional month and prepare your garden for the blooming season.

Explore all monthly gardening tasks

Explore all of our monthly gardening checklists: