January may feel quiet in the garden, but it’s an important month for planning, preparation and gentle maintenance. While growth is slow and many plants lie dormant, the choices you make now will set the tone for a thriving garden in spring and summer.
With a combination of indoor tasks, seasonal care and forward-thinking planning, January offers more gardening opportunities than many people realise.

One of the most valuable January activities is reviewing the past year’s successes and challenges. Take time to assess which plants thrived, which struggled, and any gaps you’d like to fill in the upcoming season. This is also the perfect time to browse seed catalogues, garden centres or online suppliers, as many release their new stock early in the year. Ordering seeds now ensures you’ll have the best selection and plenty of time to plan your sowing schedule.

Although the outdoor garden is largely dormant, there are still tasks worth tackling. Winter storms and frost can damage structures, so check greenhouses, sheds and fences for any necessary repairs. Inspect tree stakes, ties and supports to ensure they’re still secure after winter winds. If you have a compost heap, turn it to keep decomposition active; even in cold weather, good aeration makes a difference.

Remove dead, diseased or crossing branches

If the weather is mild then winter pruning is a great job to get stuck into. Leafless branches make it easier to see the structure of fruit trees, roses and deciduous shrubs. Remove dead, diseased or crossing branches to encourage healthier growth when warmer weather arrives, but avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs now as doing so may remove the buds that will bloom in the coming months.

For those eager to start early sowing, January can be productive indoors. Hardy annuals, such as sweet peas, can be started in a cool, bright spot. If you have a heated propagator, you can begin sowing chillies, aubergines and some herbs. Just be cautious not to start too many seeds too early; limited daylight can cause leggy, weak seedlings.

Shield tender plants from cold snaps

Protecting plants from frost is another good January task. Use fleece, cloches or mulch to shield tender plants from cold snaps. Check containers regularly, as potted plants are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

Finally, take time to enjoy the small signs of life that begin to appear this month. Early bulbs like snowdrops and aconites often push through the soil in January, offering a hopeful reminder that spring is not too far away.