Monty Don’s ‘major’ February gardening job for beautiful spring bulbs
February marks the very first signs of spring in our gardens, from slightly lighter evenings to snowdrops finally starting to break through the soil.
With these initial signs of new life in our gardens after a dreary winter slumber, Monty Don says February is a great time to start preparing our outdoor spaces for the months ahead.
The Gardeners’ World presenter explains on his blog: "February is the month when the garden starts to come alive and grow, even if the weather can be severe and the days are still short.
"In February, something is happening. There is a thrill in the air.”
But Monty stresses one ‘major’ gardening job in particular should be carried out this month – mulching.
For thriving spring-flowering bulbs, he recommends adding a layer of organic matter, usually manure, compost or bark, on the surface of flower beds or plant pots. Not only can this help retain soil moisture, but it also helps suppress weeds, adds nutrients and insulates plant roots.
Spring blooms – like tulips, alliums and daffodils – are the things to focus on in February, according to Monty. He recommends mulching garden borders or pots "before the foliage gets too big."
If you’re out and about in your garden this month, Sarah Raven suggests five other jobs to tackle for a thriving space come spring, from sowing to pruning.
She adds that February is also a great time of year to celebrate the first signs of colour in our gardens.
Sarah tells Country Living: "We appreciate colour in the garden much more when there is less of it around.
“Celebrate the first real colour of the year, whether in the form of Iris reticulata in your containers or an early flowering, deliciously scented shrub."
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