The start of 2021 certainly feels different to previous ‘new year’ beginnings, but there’s no reason why we can’t retain a little normality, especially when it comes to our gardens. They have been there for us throughout lockdown, and we definitely count ourselves lucky to have such beautiful spaces to enjoy during these uncertain times.
It’s time to make a list, of all the small gardening jobs we can begin so our gardens will thrive throughout the rest of the year.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential gardening skill to encourage healthy growth and flowering. There are two types of basic pruning cuts, heading which stimulates the growth of buds and reduces shrub height. Whilst thinning cuts are used to remove branches and reduce shrub density. The most important thing to remember is to keep your cuts at a 45-degree angle to prevent water damage and disease.
Plants to prune in January:
- Roses
- Wisteria
- Apple and pear trees
- Blackcurrant, redcurrant and gooseberry bushes.
Ordering Seeds
It’s always been important to get your seed orders in early so that you can start planning your growing schedule. Last year we saw a surge in gardening with everyone spending more time at home, so this year will undoubtedly see more long waiting lists for seed orders and gardening essentials.
Rejuvenate your Growing Environment
If you’re growing a little tired of your garden space, we have a number of accessories that will rekindle your love of gardening.
- During the winter months it can be hard to keep plants protected from the frost. A Greenhouse Heater is perfect for regulating the air temperature in your greenhouse and taking the edge off those chilly nights.
- January provides tough condition for sowing seeds. Our propagator provides a warm and closed environment for germinating seedlings and newly planted cuttings.
- The mornings and evenings can still be quite dark, so bring light into your greenhouse with our Gifford Greenhouse Lights. They will soon become an essential feature of your working greenhouse.
- With shorter daylight hours, you may also want to consider Full Spectrum LED Grow Lights. The LED lights have been designed to extend your growing season by providing a continuous stable environment for your greenhouse plants.
- If you’re running out of growing space in your greenhouse, look at some benching or high-level shelving. Not only do they create a beautiful space to display your plants but the shelves are ideal for starting things off in early spring.
We have a full range of accessories that can transform your growing space, or you can request a brochure on them.
We would love to see how you 2021 growing season is going. Share your photos on Facebook with @alitex or tag us on Instagram @alitex_.
