East Dean and Friston
January Garden Tasks
East Dean and Friston Gardening club
Sowing and Planting
• Sow sweet peas under cover; pinch
out tips when 10 cm tall.
• Start onion seeds indoors for
transplanting later.
• Order seed potatoes, onion sets, and
shallots ready for spring.
Pruning and Cutting back
• Prune apple and pear trees while
dormant (not stone fruit).
• Cut back overgrown shrubs and hedges in
mild spells.
• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing
branches.
Harvesting
• Lift remaining leeks, parsnips, and carrots
as needed.
• Harvest winter cabbages, kale, Brussels
sprouts, and sprouting broccoli.
• Check stored apples and potatoes;
remove any that are rotting.
Watering and Feeding
• Water houseplants and overwintered
containers sparingly.
• Avoid waterlogging dormant plants in
cold, dark conditions.
• Use rainwater from butts where possible.
Greenhouse
Greenhouse
• Ventilate on mild days to reduce
condensation and mould.
• Clean and disinfect staging, glass, and
pots ready for spring.
• Sow early salad crops in trays with heat.
Houseplants
• Reduce watering; let compost dry slightly
before rewatering.
• Keep plants away from cold draughts and
frosty windowsills.
• Increase humidity with pebble trays or by
grouping plants.
Wildlife & Ponds
• Keep bird feeders topped up;
provide fat balls and seeds.
• Ensure fresh, unfrozen water
daily for birds and animals.
• If ponds freeze, never break
ice with force — melt a hole
with a pan of hot water.
Lawn Care
• Keep off frosty or waterlogged lawns
to avoid damage.
• Clear debris, twigs, and leaves from
the surface.
• Service the lawnmower ready for
spring.
General Maintenance
• Repair or replace broken garden tools
and structures.
• Clean paths and patios to prevent slips in
icy weather.
• Organise sheds and sharpen blades and
secateurs.
Leisure ( And Finally….)
• Visit a winter garden or arboretum for
inspiration.
• Take time to enjoy evergreens, bark, and
winter scents.
• Relax indoors with seed catalogues and a
warm drink.
Paths, Fences & Tools
• Check fences, trellis, and
gates for storm damage.
• Pressure-wash slippery paths
if weather allows.
• Apply preservative to sheds
and fences on dry days.
Planning & Admin
• Review last year’s successes and
failures.
• Plan crop rotations and make a
sowing calendar.
• Order seeds, compost, and supplies
early to avoid shortages.
