Beat the weather
Get out and get some fresh air if you’ve been indoors over the holidays.
Frosts, high winds and heavy rain could all be a problem for you this month, so it’s a good time to ensure that ties, fleeces, stakes and other supports and protection are in place and secure. The garden won’t be getting much light now, so if you can, think about moving some plants to sunnier areas where they will get the most light possible. If you’ve had enough of being outside, you can always stay in the warm and get busy planning your vegetable plot for the coming year.
Protect and survive
Even if you live in a milder area, you need to remember to bring in any tender plants – pop them in a conservatory or greenhouse. If you haven’t already, do make sure you wrap up any containers that are not frost-proof – such as terracotta pots – with fleece, hessian or bubble wrap. Gather them together and place close to a wall that faces south to offer extra protection. Make sure that alpine beds are cleared of leaves or they will get smothered. Tidy up and cut back plants in containers and tubs, and mulch with grit or compost to tackle heavy rains and algae growth. Remember to put bricks or feet under pots. On the other hand, you may need to water some containers that are positioned under balconies and eaves.
Pruning masterclass at RHS Hyde Hall
8 January. Perplexed by the mysteries of pruning? Get expert advice and learn pruning techniques at RHS Garden Hyde Hall at this masterclass on late winter pruning of wisteria and shrub roses. The session runs from 11am-1.30pm and takes place outside, so wrap up warm! £12 for members, £21 for non-members. To book call 020 31765830 quoting booking ref 11350.
Rose pruning at Rosemoor
Many people are scared to prune roses – but it’s easy when you know how. And that’s what you’ll know by the end of this talk and demonstration at the RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon. All kinds of roses will be covered, from shrubs and climbers, to tsandards and ramblers. The workshop takes place outside so wrap up warm. 15 January. £12 for members, £22 for non-members. Call 020 31765830 to book with ref 11471.
Get listening
Listen to our latest podcast, featuring news and expert tips from the RHS at http://www.rhs.org.uk/podcast
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