Despite the chilly January weather, gardening experts say this is actually an ideal time to get pruning in your garden.
With most plants dormant during the winter months, now is the perfect opportunity for essential garden maintenance without causing stress to your plants.
Gardening expert James Ewens from Green Feathers has shared his professional guidance on winter pruning techniques to help gardeners make the most of this crucial period.
James said: “First, you want to make sure that you are pruning the right types of trees and brushes to avoid harming your garden.”
For climbing roses, gardeners should prune back summer growth to two to three buds on the main stem
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The timing is particularly important, as winter dormancy allows gardeners to clearly see the structure of deciduous plants and make precise cuts where needed.
Fruit trees and bushes are among the key plants suitable for January pruning, particularly apple and pear trees along with currant and gooseberry bushes.
These should be pruned to remove dead, diseased or unproductive branches, creating an open structure that promotes better air circulation.
Rose enthusiasts can tackle both climbing and bush varieties during this period.
For climbing roses, gardeners should prune back summer growth to two to three buds on the main stem, which helps control size and encourages spring flowering.
Deciduous trees and ornamental shrubs can benefit from light pruning to remove damaged or crossing branches. January is also great for trimming overgrown hedges, particularly deciduous varieties like beech and hawthorn.
However, the gardening expert emphasised the importance of being cautious around hedges to avoid disturbing any wildlife or nesting birds.
Proper technique is crucial for successful winter pruning, with experts emphasising several key considerations. Clean, sharp tools are essential, as dirty equipment can spread bacteria and fungi between plants.
Sharp implements also ensure clean cuts that promote faster healing and reduce wound stress.
Timing is particularly important during the winter months, with experts advising against pruning during frosty periods.
James said: “Cuts can be more vulnerable to frost damage and will slow down a plant’s ability to heal.”
Wildlife protection should be a top priority when pruning during January. Gardeners are advised to check carefully for birds and mammals nesting in dense foliage.
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Britons should not neglect these jobs in their gardens
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It’s also important to preserve berries, seeds, and flowers where possible, as these provide vital food sources for non-hibernating animals during winter months.
Post-pruning care is vital for ensuring optimal plant recovery and spring growth. The expert recommended applying a nutrient-rich mulch layer around pruned plants to aid recovery.
The mulch should be spread two to four inches thick around the plant base, but gardeners must avoid piling it against trunks or stems to prevent rotting.
Regular mulch maintenance is important, particularly after heavy rainfall when it may need refreshing. Proper disposal of pruning debris is equally crucial for garden health.
While most pruned material can be composted or burned, any diseased or rotten wood should be destroyed to prevent the spread of pathogens and pests to nearby plants.
James added: “By focusing on the right plants and using proper techniques, pruning in January can help prepare your garden for a healthy, productive spring.”
