As January slips behind us, there’s a quiet change in the garden. The days are still short and the air still feels sharp, but the light is returning little by little. February is less about rushing ahead and more about gentle care to set everything up for spring.
Most plants are still resting, but you’ll start to notice some small signs of movement. A few steady jobs now will help your garden to wake well when the growing season begins.
Top gardening jobs for February
Below is our guide for the top gardening jobs in February. If the weather turns rough again, take it slowly and focus on what feels safe and manageable.
A little note from us: this guide is put together with our MyTree™ community in mind. It’s here to support new gardeners and gift recipients who want calm, friendly guidance through the year. Each month we share clear seasonal advice to help keep trees and plants happy, healthy and thriving.
General garden maintenance
If milder weather encourages the lawn to grow, give it a light trim on the highest mower setting. Avoid mowing in wet conditions and try not to walk on grass if it’s frozen, as this can bruise and damage it.
In very wet spells, green algae can form on paths and patios. A brisk brush, or a gentle jet wash on a dry day, helps prevent slippery patches.
Prepping soil and beds
If your garden has heavy soil, February is a good time to improve drainage before spring planting begins. Dig in organic matter such as compost, and add grit where needed, to help water move more freely.
If you’re preparing beds for roses, avoid planting where roses have previously grown. Replanting into the same spot can lead to replant disease and weaker growth. You can explore suitable varieties in our Rose Bush Gifts collection.
Remove any weeds that have started to appear, lifting the whole plant including the roots. Add these to the compost heap.
Once beds are clear, add a layer of organic mulch. Mulch improves soil condition, suppresses new weeds, protects roots from frost and helps the soil hold moisture.
If your soil is very heavy and cold, it can be kinder to wait until March or April to mulch, once the ground warms a little.
Potted trees and plants
Pot-grown trees and plants appreciate a top-up of fresh compost at this time of year. Add a new layer on top, or remove some tired compost first, to make space.
Pots in sheltered spots can dry out surprisingly quickly. Check a couple of inches down. If the compost feels dry, water lightly. Aim for compost that stays gently moist rather than wet.
If pots become waterlogged, check drainage holes and mix a little grit into the compost. Raise pots on bricks so excess water can drain away fully.
Watering in February
If February has been very wet, keep watering to a minimum. Only water if the soil has become dry and do so sparingly.
Pruning trees and plants
Finish pruning apple and pear trees while they are still dormant. Aim for an open framework so light and air can reach the centre. Keep four to five main branches as the structure.
Avoid pruning stone fruit trees and flowering prunus varieties now, as they can be vulnerable to silver leaf infections at this time of year.
Complete pruning of hybrid tea and floribunda roses before spring growth begins. This encourages strong new shoots and a productive flowering season.
When pruning trees and shrubs, remove dead, damaged or diseased growth first. Then thin out crossing or overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce the risk of pests and disease.
After pruning, add mulch or a gentle feed around the base to support fresh growth as the garden begins to wake.
Planting trees and plants in February
Bare-root and container-grown trees and plants can be planted this month, as long as the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Hedging plants and climbers can also go in now.
Add stakes and guards to newly planted trees to protect them from wind and wildlife. If frost or strong winds have lifted plants slightly, gently firm them back into place so roots stay secure.
If you’re planting now, our Tree Gifts and Fruit Tree Gifts are both well suited to late winter planting.
What to harvest
Evergreen herbs such as rosemary and bay can be harvested all year-round. Growth is slow now, but they’re still full of flavour for the kitchen.
Feeding your trees and plants
As the garden starts to stir, a light feed will help plants build their energy for spring. Keep it gentle and steady rather than heavy-handed.
Protecting plants from frosts
Fruiting and flowering trees will soon begin to bud. Late frosts can damage blossom. If frost is forecast, wrap pots with fleece or bubble wrap to protect the roots.
Potted trees can stay sheltered until the weather improves.
What’s looking good in February
Most deciduous trees are still bare, but the garden is beginning to show early signs of life. Evergreens continue to hold their colour and shape – they’re a lovely way to add structure while you wait for spring.
Wildlife in February
Food is still scarce, so keep feeders topped up and leave fresh water out for passing birds and wildlife.
Indoor gardening throughout February
Citrus trees benefit from a fresh layer of compost. Top-dress the surface or re-pot if there’s room. You can find suitable options in our Citrus Tree Gifts range.
If your citrus looks stressed, such as yellowing leaves or leaf drop, check the environment. Keep plants away from radiators and cold draughts, and make sure watering is balanced.
Houseplants generally need less water now. Move them to brighter spots, but keep them away from very cold windows, especially on frosty nights. Standing plants on trays of damp gravel gently boosts humidity and counteracts dry air from central heating.
Other gardening jobs for February
Some pests, such as aphids and spider mites, can still be found on some indoor plants, outdoor plants and in greenhouses. Check leaves and remove pests by hand, or use a mild soapy water spray if needed.
On dry, mild days, ventilate the greenhouse to improve airflow and reduce the risk of pests and fungal issues.