Gardening Hints & Tips for the month
FEBRUARY 2026
What to do in the garden in February
February may still feel wintry, but it’s an important month for getting your garden ready for the season ahead.
Now is the ideal time to prune roses before they begin their main growth. Start by removing any spindly, dead or crossing stems, then cut the remaining shoots back by around half. Always prune just above a strong, outward-facing bud to create an open, vase-shaped plant. Cutting stems at a slight angle helps rainwater drain away from the buds.
Wisteria should also be pruned this month. Cut back last year’s growth to within three or four buds of the main stems to keep plants tidy and encourage a spectacular spring display. It’s also a good time to tidy up evergreen hedges.
As long as the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, February is a great month for planting new shrubs and trees. Be sure to stake young trees and water them in well to help them establish.
Finally, take time to tidy the garden. Tie in any loose climbers, check stakes and tree ties, remove winter weeds, and clear away fallen leaves to prevent slugs and snails from hiding as the weather warms.
A little effort now will set your garden up beautifully for spring.