February
- Bexley Garden Centre
- Feb 1, 2025
- 2 min read
February might still feel like winter, but it’s a brilliant month to start preparing for spring. A few simple jobs now can make a big difference later – from protecting plants in late frosts to getting your first seeds started under cover.
February jobs in the garden
Garden protection & weather prep
Late frosts are still common, so keep frost fleece/cloches handy. Raise pots on feet, check drainage holes, and remove heavy snow from shrubs/conifers to prevent snapping.
Lawn care
Avoid walking on frosty or waterlogged grass. On milder, dry days you can lightly rake to lift debris and moss, and brush off worm casts once they’ve dried.
Veg patch & seed prep
Start early sowings under cover (propagator/windowsill), and keep chitting seed potatoes. Clean trays and pots, top up with seed compost, and plan what goes where (crop rotation) before spring planting begins.
Trees & shrubs
Finish pruning apple and pear trees while dormant (dry day). Cut back winter shrubs where needed, remove dead/damaged stems, and check ties/stakes after wind. Hold off pruning spring-flowering shrubs until after they bloom.
Wildlife
Keep feeders topped up and put out fresh water (defrost if needed). February is a great time to clean bird boxes ready for nesting, and leave a quiet corner for wildlife shelter.
What’s in store this month
Seed potatoes & onion sets (and seed trays/pots to start things off)
Seed & cutting compost, plus vermiculite/grit for stronger seedlings
Heated propagators, mini greenhouses and greenhouse accessories
Plant protection: fleece, cloches, cold frames and pot feet
Fruit tree care: secateurs, loppers, ties and supports
Wild bird food, feeders and feeding stations
February garden FAQs
What seeds can I start in February?
If you can sow indoors or under cover, February is ideal for chillies, peppers, aubergines and early salad/herbs. Tomatoes can be started too if you’ve got enough warmth and light.
Is it too early to plant seed potatoes?
It depends on weather and whether you’re planting in the ground or under cover. February is perfect for chitting, and planting first earlies can begin later in the month in milder conditions (especially in containers or a greenhouse).
Can I prune in February?
Yes – it’s a great time to prune apple and pear trees while they’re dormant. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs (like forsythia) until after they flower.
Can I do anything to improve my lawn now?
If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, you can lightly rake to remove debris and moss and start planning spring treatments. Avoid heavy work if it’s too wet.
Should I still be feeding birds in February?
Yes – February is still a lean time for wildlife. Keep food and fresh water available, especially during cold spells.
Visit us today...
at our Bexleyheath or Barnehurst branches to stock up on winter essentials and get ready for spring – including seed potatoes, compost, frost protection, heated propagators and wild bird food.
