As February arrives, we can feel the excitement of spring just around the corner. While temperatures might still be on the cooler side, this month offers a unique chance to seize the moment and kick-start essential landscaping tasks that will lay the groundwork for a beautiful garden for our visitors. The efforts made now will handsomely reward us in the months to come with a vibrant display of colorful blooms and lush greenery, creating a beautiful and thriving environment.
In this post, we’ll explore a variety of landscaping tasks we prioritize during February. From garden clean-ups to planning new plantings, let’s prepare the garden for the summer!
Garden Clean-Up

A thorough garden clean-up is one of the first tasks we tackle this February. After the long winter, the garden gathered debris, dead plants, and other unwanted materials. We clear away fallen leaves, broken branches, and any other garden debris, especially after the winter storms we had this year.
This essential maintenance not only improves our garden's appearance but also allows the soil to breathe and prepares it for fresh growth. Also, remember that clean pathways prevent slippery surfaces, particularly after rainfall. Tidy garden paths not only boost its aesthetic appeal but ensures our safety when we are walking around the garden. Any leaves that are left on paths or driveways will decompose into soil and eventually these areas will develop into pockets of weeds.
Pruning and Trimming

February is the perfect time to prune shrubs and trees that may have outgrown their space over the past year. Plants are usually dormant during this season, making it easier to visualize their structure without being distracted by leaves. A winter prune is required for the dozen fruit trees that we have growing on our property to keep them thriving and producing fruit.
Our focus is on deciduous trees and summer-flowering shrubs this month. For example, light pruning of a hydrangea can lead to abundant blooms later in the year. Just remember to avoid cutting back spring-flowering plants, like forsythia, which can reduce flower production. To succeed, familiarize yourself with the specific pruning needs of your plants so you know when and how much to cut.
Soil Preparation
With the garden clean and trim done, it's time to concentrate on the soil! February is an excellent opportunity to prepare the beds for planting. We start by testing our soil to identify any nutrient deficiencies. A study conducted in several Irish gardens showed that nearly 40% of gardens could benefit from organic amendments. Like us, many Irish gardeners choose to enrich their soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure, fortifying it to establish a robust foundation for healthy growth. If you have heavy clay, like us, incorporating organic matter can create a balanced texture that promotes healthy root development.
Refreshing Mulch

After cleanup and planting prep, we refresh the mulch in our garden beds. A layer of mulch keeps moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds, making life easier for your plants as they grow. We prioritize the use of organic materials, including things such as wood mulch, because they are better for the environment. Using natural mulch adds a rustic charm to our garden while providing essential nutrients.
Preparing our Tools
As we prepare the garden, we tend to our gardening tools! February is a great time to assess the garden equipment to ensure everything is ready for the busy season ahead.
Clean, sharpen, and repair any tools that may need attention after the winter months. Having well-maintained tools not only makes gardening tasks easier but enhances your overall efficiency as spring approaches.

Ready for a Flourishing Garden Season
By investing time in the garden in February, even when it is cold and wet, we set ourself up for a rewarding gardening season. Remember, preparation and care lead to exceptional blooms and delicious harvests in the summer months.
So let's gather our gloves and tools, and prepare to transform our outdoor spaces. With a little effort now, I know we will enjoy a flourishing garden that reflects our hard work. Here’s to a successful February and a bountiful spring in your Irish garden!