Spring is stirring in Ilkley, and there’s plenty to be getting on with as your garden gently awakens from winter.
February might still feel chilly here in West Yorkshire, but it’s one of the most exciting months for gardeners. There’s a real sense of anticipation in the air – and some genuinely rewarding jobs to crack on with. Our Alex has put together his essential February gardening tasks, and we’re delighted to share our Plants of the Month, chosen by our team.
Alex’s February Gardening Jobs
Spring Bulbs – It’s Not Too Late!
Missed planting bulbs in autumn? Don’t worry! Pop into our garden centre in Ilkley for pot-grown Tulips, Daffodils and Crocus to brighten your borders. Plant them now and you’ll still enjoy a beautiful spring display. They’re the perfect way to add instant colour while you’re waiting for everything else to catch up.
Prune Hedges Before Nesting Season
Give your hardy evergreen hedges a gentle trim now, before our feathered friends start nesting. Box, yew, holly and laurel can all benefit from a tidy-up this month. Not only will your hedges look smarter, but you’ll be doing your bit for garden wildlife by getting this done early.
Feed Your Favourites
Treat roses, fruit bushes and shrubs to a boost of slow-release fertiliser. A sprinkle of bonemeal or chicken pellets around the base will set them up beautifully for the growing season ahead. It’s one of those simple jobs that makes all the difference come summer.
Chit Potatoes
Get your first early spuds started somewhere bright and frost-free, ready for planting in March. Chitting potatoes is wonderfully satisfying – just pop them in an egg box on a windowsill and watch those shoots emerge. If you need seed potatoes, we’ve got a great selection in store.
Protect Tender Plants
Make use of cloches and cold frames to keep precious plants cosy through late frosts. February in Yorkshire can be unpredictable, and those tender shoots need a little extra care. We stock a lovely range of protection options at Moss & Moor.
Bring in Instant Colour
Why wait for spring? Plant Hellebores, Viburnum and Skimmia now for instant seasonal cheer. These beauties will reward you with flowers and interest right through the coldest weeks. We’ve a lovely selection in our plant department.
Fill Containers with Hardy Bedding
Create early interest with hardy bedding plants that can brave Yorkshire weather. Pansies, Primroses and Dianthus will reward you with colour right through spring and into early summer. Perfect for pots by your front door or dotted around the garden for cheerful splashes of colour.
February Plants of the Month
garden Plant of the month
Camellia
Chosen by David and Kerstin
For outdoor impact this month, we’re spotlighting the stunning Camellia – a true garden treasure. With glossy evergreen leaves and breathtaking blooms in shades of pink, red and white, camellias bring elegance and colour when we need it most, from late winter right through to spring.
Why we love them:
- Spectacular flowers that last for weeks
- Evergreen foliage for year-round structure
- Surprisingly hardy once established in Yorkshire gardens
Growing Camellias in Ilkley & West Yorkshire:
Location – Find a sheltered spot with partial shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Camellias are happiest away from harsh winds and morning sun, which can damage frosted buds.
Planting – Autumn or early spring is ideal. Keep the root ball level with the soil surface – no deeper. If your garden soil is alkaline (common in parts of Yorkshire), grow camellias in containers filled with ericaceous compost.
Watering – Regular watering is key, especially when establishing. Rainwater is best if you can collect it, as camellias prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Feeding – After flowering, treat with ericaceous fertiliser to keep them thriving. We stock everything you need in our gardening department.
Mulching – A generous layer of bark or leafmould helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay.
Pruning – A light trim after flowering to remove any dead or crossing branches keeps them tidy and healthy.
Frost Protection – Young plants and flower buds appreciate shelter from severe Yorkshire frosts. Fleece works wonderfully, or move containers to a protected spot on particularly cold nights.
We have a beautiful selection of hardy camellia varieties in stock, perfect for Yorkshire gardens. Come and choose your favourite – our team are always happy to help with advice on varieties and planting.
Houseplant of the month
Kentia Palm
Chosen by Jenny and David
This month, we’re celebrating the elegant Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana) – a graceful touch of the tropics for your home. This stunning palm has been beloved since Victorian times and even graced the grand rooms of the Titanic. Native to Lord Howe Island, it’s wonderfully easy-going and completely pet-friendly, making it perfect for family homes.
Care Tips for Yorkshire Homes:
Light – Your Kentia enjoys bright but indirect light. It can tolerate a little shade, but keep it away from harsh sun to protect those lovely fronds.
Water – Wait until the top few inches of compost feel dry, then give it a good drink. Let excess water drain away completely.
Humidity – This palm loves a humid atmosphere, which can be tricky in centrally heated homes. Mist the leaves regularly or place on a pebble tray filled with water for that tropical feel.
Temperature – Keep things cosy between 18-24°C, never dropping below 12°C.
Growth – A slow and steady grower, reaching 2-3 metres indoors over time.
Pop into our houseplant area to see our beautiful Kentia Palms and get advice from our knowledgeable team.
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This February
There’s never been a better time to visit our award-winning garden centre in Ilkley. Whether you’re stocking up on gardening essentials, choosing beautiful houseplants, or treating yourself to lunch in our restaurant, we’d love to welcome you.
Opening Hours:
- Garden Centre: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm
- Restaurant: Mon-Sat 9am-3pm (last orders), Sun 9.30am-3pm (last orders)
Find us at Moss & Moor, Ilkley, West Yorkshire. Free parking available.
Happy gardening!