What’s a Gardener to Do in January?

In a word, PLENTY! But the month of January can be challenging for avid gardeners.

First, Happy New Year to all of our customers. I want to re-cap December. The month started cold. The middle of December was remarkable. Our weather was more seasonable, with temperatures in the forties and above. But, most of all, that soaking rain we got on Dec. 11th. We were dry up to this point. But what a blessing to have this slow, soaking rainfall. Then, we continued to rain more as the month proceeded.

Things to Do in the Garden in January

So, back to the topic – here are a few suggestions for what we gardeners can do to pass the time.

1. Take advantage of sunny, mild days and walk around your gardens. Keep a notebook to write down some ideas about what you want to do come spring. Remember that this stroll can be considered exercise for the body and the mind.
2. Think inside for the winter by adding some plant color to the window sills. Some easy-to-care houseplants include Kalanchoes, Anthuriums, Bromeliads, and African Violets. Many houseplants are considered “clean air machines” as they help purify our air.
3. Grow some indoor herbs. To be successful, you may require some additional lighting. A simple grow light will do the trick. You can also grow your fresh herbs in the winter.
4. In my last blog, I mentioned bird feeding and the fact that birding is the country’s second most popular outdoor pastime after gardening. So, try hanging a bird feeder for our feathered friends. It is so much fun watching all the birds this time of year.
5. Get into the tool shed. Now is a good time to clean and sharpen all the tools to prepare for spring gardening. THURSDAYS ARE OUR FARMERS’ MARKET DAY. THE VENDORS ARE NOW SET UP INSIDE THE GREENHOUSE. ONE VENDOR IS PETER EVANS WITH STAY SHARP ( OUR KNIFE SHARPENER ), WHO WILL SHARPEN ALL GARDENING TOOLS. SEE EVAN.
6. Get creative. Think about making a terrarium this winter.
7. Yes, it is January, and most think nothing can be planted in January. This is not the case here in Central Virginia. I just took a soil temperature test, and our soil temperature is 40 degrees. In other words, not frozen. Only frozen ground does not make it a good planting time. So, be my guest to go outside and plant or relocate existing plants.

HAPPY GARDENING