The Garden in January

January storms of wind and rain

Plants of interest (my selected varieties of trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials)

	Corylus avellana 'Contorta' the cork screw hazel,
	Hamamelis x intmermedia 'Pallida the witch hazels,
	Skimmia japonica 'Nymans',
	Hedera helix the common or English ivy,
	Abeliophyllum distichum,
	Chimonanthus preacox,
	Viburnum tinus,
	Lonicera fragrantissima the winter shrubby honeysuckle,
	Cornus alba
	Mahonia species,
	Sarcococca,
	Ribes laurifolium,

Key tasks to undertake

	Sow Sweet Peas, Geraniums and Gazinia seeds.
	When conditions are suitable dig, lay turf, spike lawns, plant trees and shrubs.
	Winter prune Wisteria to create a good framework, shorten side shoots back to 2 or 3 buds, this will keep the shrub confined and encourage flowering. It will be necessary to prune Wisterias again in August to reduce vigorous growth.
	Clean and sterilize glass houses pots and boxes.
	Lift and divide early-flowering snowdrops while they are in leaf.
	Protect plants from frost if necessary.
	Sow early vegetables under glass.

My tips for the month

	The weather at this time of year can prevent the gardener from doing very much, keep off wet soil, you can do more damage than good working wet soil.
	Its a good time to do any last minute planning not done last month, look through books and catalogues.
	Its a good time to think about wild life especially birds, we can put out food at this time of year.
	Get that mowing machine in for service as soon as you can, don't leave it to late, your lawn may need an early cut.

My pictures of plants providing colour / interest this month

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