It may not seem like the most active time in the gardening year, but there are quite a few tasks to keep you busy in February. While now might not yet be the time to relax on the garden furniture, there’s plenty to do to ensure a fresh supply of vegetables later in the year.
Covering up
One of the main tasks in February involves covering up your precious produce plants to ward off predators. Vegetable beds can be netted to ward off hungry birds.
Seed beds
Vegetable beds can now be prepped, ready for the coming season. Some vegetables are best sown under cover at this time of year, but raised beds are one way of getting ahead. The soil warms up more quickly, and they also drain more rapidly too. Gardens with clay soil in particular can benefit from building some raised vegetable beds.
All seed beds should be weeded and tidied, before adding a generous quantity of compost. After doing so, beds can be covered with black plastic sheeting to maximise warmth. This will keep the area as dry and warm as possible in preparation for spring.
Perennials
Asparagus, artichokes and other perennials can be mulched with garden compost or manure.
Potatoes
It’s time to chit those potato tubers. Stand on end in an egg carton or similar tray, and place in a cool spot that’s well-lit and frost-free.
Brassicas
Remove any yellow foliage from cauliflowers, broccoli or Brussels sprouts. This prevents the spread of mould and mildew.
