Early sowing and planning now can lead to stronger plants, earlier harvests and more colourful gardens later in the year
GARDENERS across Pembrokeshire are being encouraged to make an early start on the growing season, with experts saying January is an ideal time to sow seeds and plant crops for the months ahead.
Despite cold winter conditions keeping many people indoors, horticultural specialists at British Garden Centres say early preparation can lead to stronger plants, earlier harvests and more vibrant summer displays.
According to the group, chitting seed potatoes now by placing them in egg boxes on a cool, bright windowsill helps produce sturdy shoots ahead of planting later in the season. Provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged, onion sets, shallots and garlic can also be planted outdoors during January.
Gardeners with access to greenhouses, cold frames or sunny windowsills are advised to sow broad beans in pots, along with hardy salad crops such as rocket and oriental greens. Early pea varieties can also be started under cover, while microgreens like cress, mustard and radish offer quick results indoors during the winter months.
Herb growers are encouraged to sow slower-growing varieties such as parsley and coriander now, while hardy herbs including rosemary, thyme and sage can be planted outdoors in well-drained soil. Mint can also be divided while dormant, although experts recommend keeping it contained to prevent it spreading.
January is also seen as an important month for planting bare-root fruit trees and bushes, including apples, pears, raspberries, currants and gooseberries. Rhubarb crowns can be planted now, and established plants may be forced under pots for an early crop.
Bare-root roses, climbers and deciduous shrubs are also suitable for planting at this time of year, provided ground conditions allow. Hardy perennials can establish strong root systems before spring growth begins.
Under cover, gardeners can sow sweet peas, hardy annuals and early bedding plants. Those with heated propagators may also start aubergines and peppers, which require a long growing season.
Gardeners are also advised to plan ahead and order summer-flowering bulbs such as dahlias, lilies and gladioli early, as popular varieties often sell out.
Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres, said: “January is the perfect month to start planning your garden. A little preparation now makes all the difference later in the year. Whether it’s sowing early seeds, chitting potatoes or ordering bulbs, getting started this month sets you up for a fantastic display and a more productive garden come spring and summer.”
British Garden Centres operates 74 sites across the UK, including stores in west Wales, and employs more than 3,500 people nationwide.
