Look after garden structures

While there’s not so much going on with your plants, take the time to treat timber structures and garden furniture, with wood preservative and stain if the weather is dry.

Check pergolas and arches now for damage so that it can be repaired before you climbers start to grow. Also remember to ensure that stand pipes and irrigation lines are drained so that water cannot freeze in them and cause damage. For the same reason, remember to lag outdoor taps. This is also a good time of year to think about installing drainage, water pipes and garden lighting.

Winter harvest

If you’ve been growing veg throughout the year you should still have plety of crops to harvest at this time of year including:

• Sprouting broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Jerusalem artichokes
• Leeks
• Parsnips
• Swede
• Celeriac
• Turnips

If your ‘cupboard’ is bare, then this is the time to start planning your vegetable plot for next year, so that you can enjoy homegrown veg all year round! Order some seed catalogues now.

Membership offer

Not already a member of the RHS? Join from just £39 and start enjoying free garden visits, personalised advice and discounted shows tickets.

Big Bird Watch

25–26 January

The Big Garden Bird Watch

Take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, or be inspired to do your own birdwatch over the weekend at RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon. Discover how to encourage birds into your garden with advice and information from the RSPB.

Listen to the latest RHS podcast

Listen to our latest podcast, where we offer seasonal information, you can hear tips on growing fruit and veg, and get up-to-the-minute help and advice.

Subscribe to RHS podcasts

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Sally - Silversurfer's Editor

Mother of three grown-up daughters and a proud grandma too, I am the ultimate multi-tasker and am passionate about my role as Silversurfers Website Editor and Social Media Manager. Always on the lookout for all things that will interest and entertain our community. Fueling fun for the young at heart!

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