February Garden Chores

Waiting for spring can be frustrating even for the most patient of gardeners. The weather is either too cold or unpredictable depending on where you live. But the worst will be over soon as the new gardening season is just around the corner! For the time being, you can prep your garden with these general February garden chores so you’ll be ready when spring finally arrives.

Reassess Your Garden Space
Evaluate your whole garden—from the trees and shrubs then right down to the ground. Take note of tree branches that need to be removed, trim overgrown shrubs and cover your planting space with mulch after the soil was warmed.

Do Some Outdoor Gardening Repairs
Check your garden tools, hoses and outdoor furniture to see if they need fixing or replacing. You could also get creative and give your raised beds and planters a new splash of paint for the new gardening season.

Learn from Last Year’s Garden
By now, you should have already reviewed last year’s journal and know what you need to do differently this year—which crops to plant, where exactly to plant them, and how to grow them successfully. Implement all the lessons you’ve learned along the way for a more bountiful garden.

Make Use of Gardening Apps
Feeling overwhelmed with all this gardening prep? From garden planners to plant identifiers, there are lots of app that can simplify the process for you.

Prepare a Seed Starting Area
Dedicate a space for seed starting and have your seeds and supplies at hand. You might also be able to start certain seeds now if you live in a warmer zone. Keep a close eye on your seedlings, making sure to provide sufficient light, water and protection from the elements.

Give Your Tools a Nice Tune-up
Tools enable you to do proper garden work, so it’s important to keep them in good condition. Clean, sharpen, sand and oil them if you haven't done so yet.

Inspect Your Houseplants
Examine your plants often and get rid of pests as soon as you spot them. As the days become longer, you can begin propagating your favorite plants. Rootbound plants will need to be repotted as well.