Page 19 - Town & Around - February 2025

Tel: 01485 540620 email: editor@townandaround.net Town & Around February 2025 19

Mudpies & Butterflies

with Louise Barby

ebruary is a pivotal month in the UK garden. As winter begins
to loosen its grip, signs of spring start to appear, and it’s the
Fperfect time to prepare for the growing season ahead. Here are
some key gardening ideas to make the most of this month.
Prepare the Soil - Clear debris and weeds from flower beds and veg-
etable patches. Dig in well-rotted manure or compost to improve soil
fertility. Avoid working on waterlogged soil to prevent compaction.
Pruning and Maintenance - Prune deciduous shrubs, fruit trees, and
climbers like wisteria. Cut back perennials that were left for winter
interest. Tidy up hedges before the nesting season begins in March.
Planting and Sowing - Start sowing hardy annuals like sweet peas
indoors. Plant bare-root roses, trees, and shrubs while they are still
dormant. Force rhubarb by covering crowns with an upturned pot.
Lawn Care - Rake leaves and debris from the lawn to allow light and
air to reach the grass. Edge borders for a neat appearance and easier
maintenance later.
Encouraging Wildlife - February is an excellent time to make your
garden a haven for wildlife - Keep bird feeders topped up with high-
energy foods like sunflower hearts and suet. Provide fresh water for
drinking and bathing, ensuring it doesn’t freeze. Build or install bird
boxes to attract nesting pairs. Leave a pile of logs or branches to offer
refuge for insects and small mammals.
Plant for Pollinators - Early flowering plants like snowdrops,
crocuses, and hellebores provide essential nectar for emerging bees.
Avoid disturbing hibernating creatures such as hedgehogs by checking
compost heaps before turning them.
Pond Care - Remove ice carefully to maintain oxygen levels for
aquatic life. Introduce floating plants if your pond lacks natural shelter.
Easy Entertaining Spaces - February might seem too cold for out-
door entertaining, but with a few adjustments, your garden can still be a
welcoming space for friends and family. Add a fire pit or chiminea for
warmth and ambiance.
Container Gardening - Arrange pots with winter-flowering plants
like cyclamen, pansies, and heather. Place containers near entrances to
brighten up dull areas.
Sustainable Choices - Start a compost heap if you don’t already
have one. Consider water-saving features like rain barrels and.
permeable paving.
By tackling these tasks, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant, welcoming
space as spring approaches.