January Gardening Jobs – Tips from Our Gardening Team
Winter may be in full swing, but there’s still plenty to do in the garden this January. Our team at Moss & Moor have put together their essential January gardening jobs to keep your garden healthy, tidy, and ready for spring. From pruning fruit trees and planning your vegetable patch, to caring for winter containers and attracting wildlife, there’s something for every gardener – whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro.
Read on for our top tips for winter garden care, expert advice from our knowledgeable plant team, and inspiration to make the most of your garden this month.
Alex’s Gardening Jobs for January
January may be cold, but there’s plenty to do in the garden to keep it healthy and thriving. Here’s Alex’s guide to gardening this month:
Plan Ahead: Decide which seeds you’d like to grow this year and be inspired by our selection in the potting shed.
Pruning: Prune apple and pear trees while they are dormant. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches and aim to create an open goblet shape.
Wildlife: Keep bird baths topped up and use warm water to melt any ice. Take part in the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch between 24th–26th January and see which birds visit your garden.
Containers & Indoor Gardening: Keep winter-planted tubs and containers looking tidy by deadheading and removing debris. Water if needed. Start an indoor herb garden on a bright windowsill.
Vegetables: Begin chitting first early potatoes in a bright, frost-free spot, ready for planting from February onwards.
Protection: Cover tender plants with fleece to protect them from frost.
Winter Interest: Plant hellebores, mahonia, hamamelis and skimmia now, provided the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.
By following these simple tasks, your garden will stay healthy all winter and be ready to flourish in spring.
January Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
skimmia
Evergreen colour for shady gardens chosen by David & Kerstin
Skimmia is a reliable and attractive shrub, perfect for UK gardens. It thrives in shade and offers year round interest, making it ideal for areas where many plants struggle. Glossy evergreen leaves provide structure throughout the seasons, while softly scented spring flowers and vibrant red berries add colour when it is needed most. Berries appear on female plants when a male is grown nearby.
Why choose skimmia
- Thrives in shade
- Evergreen foliage all year
- Scented spring flowers
- Long lasting winter berries
- Ideal for borders, woodland gardens and containers
Where to plant
Plant in partial to full shade, in a sheltered position away from cold winds. Perfect for north facing borders and patio pots.
Soil and care
Skimmia prefers humus rich, well drained soil. Improve the soil with leaf mould or ericaceous compost before planting. In alkaline areas, grow in pots using ericaceous compost.
Water regularly, especially in dry weather, but avoid waterlogging. Mulch in spring with bark or leaf mould to retain moisture.
Maintenance
Skimmia is low maintenance. Remove any damaged growth after flowering and feed lightly in spring.
A timeless shrub that brings calm, colour and structure to the garden all year round.
Houseplant of the month
Dracaena marginata
(Also known as the Dragon Tree)
Chosen by Jenny & Oli
A graceful, slim plant that fits perfectly into tight corners. Dracaena marginata is elegant, easy to style and a great choice for brightening up your home.
Why we love it
- Air purifying
- Striking architectural shape
- NOT pet friendly
Light
Place somewhere bright but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering
Water when the top couple of inches of soil are dry, and allow water to drain away completely. Rainwater or filtered water is best, as fluoride can damage the foliage. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause leaf tips to turn black.
Humidity
Dracaena enjoys a humid environment. Mist occasionally to keep it healthy and happy.
Temperature
Keep in a warm spot, ideally between 15–25°C. Avoid draughts or placing near heat sources.
Height & Growth
Can grow up to 2.5m, but very slowly. You can prune back if needed to fit your space.
Feeding
Apply a liquid feed once a month between April and October.
looking after houseplants
Let’s keep your garden thriving — there’s always something to discover at Moss & Moor!