February can look quiet in the garden, but it’s one of the most valuable months to get ahead. A few well-timed tasks now will set you up for stronger growth, better flowering, and a more enjoyable outdoor space come spring.
It’s also the perfect time to think about garden design. If you’re considering a garden redesign, new paving, improved flow, or a proper planting plan, starting now means you can be ready for the busy spring and summer period.
1) Tidy borders (but don’t over-tidy)
A gentle tidy makes everything feel fresher without stripping away wildlife habitat:
- Cut down dead stems you left for winter structure (check for overwintering insects first).
- Leave some seed heads where you can for birds and shelter.
- Clear patios, steps and paths of slippery algae and leaf build-up (a stiff brush often beats pressure washing).
Handy tools: If your secateurs are blunt, a sharp pair makes pruning faster and cleaner — browse options like secateurs at Screwfix.
Garden design tip: While tidying, note where your garden stays soggy, shady, windy or slippery — these observations are incredibly useful when creating a realistic garden design plan.
2) Mulch and feed the soil (without digging wet ground)
If the soil is wet, avoid digging (compaction causes long-term issues). Instead:
- Weed little and often, especially perennial weeds.
- Top-dress borders with compost or well-rotted manure.
- Mulch around shrubs and perennials to suppress weeds and conserve moisture.
Where to buy compost (UK): For peat-free and multipurpose options, like the B&Q compost & soil improvers.
Planting design tip: Fresh mulch makes borders look instantly “designed” — and shows where gaps need filling in your planting plan.
3) Prune the right plants (and avoid the common mistakes)
February is prime pruning time for many plants, but timing matters:
- Wisteria: finish winter pruning by shortening whippy growth to encourage flowers.
- Repeat-flowering roses: many gardeners prune late February into March in a mild spell.
- Late-summer flowering shrubs (e.g., buddleja): can often be cut back hard now for stronger growth.
Avoid heavy pruning now:
- Hydrangea macrophylla (mopheads/lacecaps) — you’ll remove flower buds.
- Spring-flowering shrubs (forsythia, lilac) — prune after flowering.
4) Start sowing seeds under cover
With a bright windowsill, greenhouse or propagator, February is a great month to start:
- Sweet peas (for stronger plants and earlier flowers)
- Early salad leaves and herbs (if you have warmth and light)
- Chillies and aubergines (long season — start early)
Where to buy seeds (UK):
Garden design note: Even if you’re not sowing, this is the perfect time to plan your “garden palette” — colour themes, height layers, and flowering sequence — the foundations of great planting design.
5) Lawn care in February (keep it gentle)
Your lawn doesn’t need much now, but these small jobs help:
- Keep off waterlogged or frosty grass to prevent damage.
- Brush away worm casts once dry.
- Edge borders for a crisp line (instant upgrade).
Garden design tip: If your lawn shape feels awkward or wastes space, it may be time for a redesign. A professional garden designer can reshape lawns to improve flow, create better seating zones, and make the space feel larger.
6) Refresh pots and containers
Containers often suffer in winter. In February:
- Check drainage holes and raise pots on feet if they’re sitting in water.
- Refresh the top layer of compost and add slow-release feed where appropriate.
- Protect tender plants on cold nights.
Plants to browse (UK):
Containers are also brilliant in courtyards and smaller London spaces — when they’re part of a wider garden design London layout, they add structure and seasonal impact with minimal disruption.
7) Check fences, trellis and hard landscaping
This is the month for practical maintenance:
- Sharpen and clean tools ready for spring.
- Check fences, pergolas, trellis and sheds for storm damage.
- Reset loose edging stones and fix wobbly steps before growth hides problems.
If you’re thinking about upgrading paving, steps or paths, February is perfect for planning materials and layout.
UK paving links (useful for design inspiration):
8) Plant bare-root hedging and trees (weather permitting)
Early February can still be a good time to plant:
- Bare-root hedging
- Fruit trees
- Roses (bare-root)
Only plant when the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Bare-root planting is cost-effective and establishes well — especially when planned as part of a garden design plan for structure and privacy.
9) February is the best month to plan a garden redesign
If you’re thinking:
- “The garden doesn’t flow properly”
- “We need more privacy”
- “The planting always looks scruffy”
- “We want a better seating area”
- “The whole space needs modernising”
…February is the ideal time to begin a garden design consultation. The best gardens are planned: layout, levels, materials, lighting ideas, and a planting plan that suits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
Garden Design Help from Soil Sisters
At Soil Sisters Garden Design, we help clients across London create beautiful, practical gardens — from compact courtyards and roof gardens to larger family spaces.
February is the sweet spot to:
- create a clear, actionable garden design plan
- build a cohesive planting design with year-round interest
- get guidance on budgeting and phasing (so the project feels manageable)
Ready to start your garden redesign? Get in touch to book a garden design consultation and turn ideas into a plan you can confidently deliver.
FAQs
What are the most important jobs to do in the garden in February (UK)?
Focus on light tidying, mulching, pruning the right plants, checking hard landscaping, and gentle lawn care. February is also ideal for starting a garden design project before spring.
Is February a good time to start a garden design?
Yes — it’s one of the best months. Planning now helps you move quickly once spring arrives and trades’ diaries fill up.