January may be one of the coldest months of the year, but there’s still plenty you can be doing in the garden. While growth is slow and frosts are common, a little attention now will set your garden up for a healthy, productive spring.
Here’s our guide to the key gardening jobs for January to keep your outdoor space in good shape during winter.
Protect Plants From Frost
January often brings hard frosts, snow, and icy winds. Check that vulnerable plants are well protected, especially during prolonged cold spells.
• Use horticultural fleece or straw to protect tender plants and newly planted shrubs
• Mulch around the base of plants with compost, bark, or well-rotted manure to insulate roots
• Move potted plants into a greenhouse, shed, or sheltered spot where possible
Avoid walking on frozen lawns or borders, as this can damage grass and compact the soil.
Prune When Conditions Are Right
Winter is a good time to prune many plants, as they are dormant and their structure is easier to see.
• Prune apple and pear trees to improve shape and encourage fruiting
• Cut back roses, removing dead or weak growth
• Remove damaged or diseased branches from trees and shrubs
Avoid pruning stone fruit trees or spring-flowering shrubs, as this can reduce flowering later in the year.
Tidy Beds and Borders
If the weather allows, January is ideal for gentle tidying.
• Remove dead plant material and fallen debris
• Keep borders weed-free to reduce problems later in the year
• Check stakes, ties, and supports are secure after winter winds
Leaving some seed heads and stems can still benefit wildlife, so aim for a balance between tidy and natural.
Prepare Your Soil
Healthy soil is the foundation of a great garden, and winter is the perfect time to improve it.
• Dig over empty vegetable beds when the soil is not frozen or waterlogged
• Add compost, manure, or soil improver to boost nutrients
• Leave soil roughly turned so frost can break it down naturally
This will make planting much easier when spring arrives.
What Vegetables to Plant in January
Growing slows right down, but there are still a few crops you can start this month, especially under cover.
Vegetables to plant or sow in January:
• Broad Beans – Sow hardy varieties indoors or under cloches
• Onions – Start seeds indoors for transplanting later
• Garlic – Plant cloves in well-drained soil if the ground is workable
• Chilli and Pepper Seeds – Sow indoors on a warm windowsill for an early start
In a greenhouse or cold frame, you can also sow winter salads such as lettuce, rocket, and spinach.
Check Stored Plants
If you’ve stored potatoes, onions, apples, or other produce, now is the time to check them.
• Remove any that show signs of rot or mould
• Keep stored crops cool, dry, and well ventilated
Regular checks prevent one bad item from spoiling the rest.
Clean and Maintain Tools and Equipment
January is an excellent month to give your tools some attention.
• Clean soil and sap from hand tools
• Sharpen secateurs, spades, and mower blades
• Oil metal parts to prevent rust
It’s also a great time to service garden machinery, so everything is ready to go when spring arrives.
Support Wildlife
Natural food sources are scarce in winter, so your garden can be a lifeline for wildlife.
• Keep bird feeders topped up with seed, suet, or peanuts
• Provide fresh water, checking daily to prevent freezing
• Leave log piles or undisturbed corners for insects and hedgehogs
A wildlife-friendly garden benefits the ecosystem year-round.
Plan for the Months Ahead
January is perfect for planning and inspiration.
• Order seeds early to avoid shortages
• Plan crop rotations and planting layouts
• Make a list of plants, tools, or improvements for the year ahead
A little planning now will save time and effort once the growing season begins.
Final Thoughts
January is all about protection, preparation, and patience. While the garden may look quiet, the work you do now, protecting plants, improving soil, pruning carefully, and planning ahead, will pay off in the months to come. Take things steady, work with the weather, and enjoy the calm before spring bursts into life.