It might seem like a bad time to get in the garden but there are several important jobs that need doing.
13:40, Fri, Jan 9, 2026 Updated: 13:55, Fri, Jan 9, 2026
Help your garden thrive in the spring (Image: Getty)
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It’s freezing cold and rainy across most of the UK. Snow has been reported as far south as London, but even though it seems like the worst time to get in the garden, there are some tasks that are crucial this month.
If you want to ensure your garden thrives when the weather starts to warm up, now is the time to prioritise these tasks. Gardening expert Paul Parker from plants and bulbs specialists J. Parker’s, has shared his five jobs that should be done now to make sure your garden looks its best in the spring. From pruning to planting, these chores will keep your garden fresh and healthy.
Some bulbs can still be planted in January (Image: Getty)
Plant bare-root plants
As long as your garden isn’t frozen solid, January is a fabulous time to get your bare-root plants in the soil.
Paul said: "January is the golden window for planting bare-root plants while they are still dormant. Bare-root plants are sold without a pot or soil, so they come as described with their roots exposed. This makes them easier to handle and usually more affordable."
In the winter months, the plant is likely dormant, so it's a great time to get it in the ground. This means the roots will be ready to establish quickly as soon as temperatures begin to rise.
Plant last-minute spring bulbs
Another thing that can be planted this month is your bulbs. Although autumn is usually the best time to plant bulbs, there is still time in January. Paul said: “Bulbs like tulips and daffodils can still be planted in January, although they might not bloom until a little later in the season.”
"Place your bulbs on top of the soil, without pressing them in so as not to damage the base of the bulb, then cover with two to four inches of finished compost or aged mulch, topping up the mulch with a fresh layer to keep them protected from the elements."
These tasks need to be done in January (Image: Vita Molyneux)
Prune climbing roses
Now is the perfect time to hard prune any climbing roses you may have - as long as you’ve been growing it for more than two years.
Paul doesn’t recommend hard pruning any rose that has been in place for less than this as it will still be establishing itself.
He said: "Pruning your climbing roses in January, while the plant is dormant, will help its shape and prepare them for a bountiful bloom come summer."
Prune fruit trees
Apple and pear trees can be pruned now, but any stone fruit trees should be left alone as this time of year leaves them vulnerable to silver leaf fungus.
Paul said: "If you haven’t already, prune your apple and pear trees while the plants are dormant. Also, without the leaves, it becomes much easier to prune with confidence.
"Cut any dead or diseased stems and any that may be crossed or inwards facing. The aim is to create a goblet-shaped frame, ready for new growth."
Check for disease
Winter can be harsh on plants and if you’re growing hellebores, now is a great time to check for leaf spot disease.
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Paul said: “Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as dark blotches and marks on your hellebore foliage.
"If you spot any affected leaves, remove and bin them carefully to limit their spread, making sure not to chuck these in the compost.”