Simple ways to get ready for spring in January
Spring might feel a long way off, but doing little things that help you get ready for it can make January feel a lot less heavy.
Instead of trudging through the cold, you can start setting the scene for brighter days — small jobs, tiny wins, and those first hints of new growth. We’ve gathered simple tips and gentle motivation to help you move through the winter weeks with purpose and get your garden in great shape for when everything finally wakes up. So, what can you be doing now?
Fresh tools, fresh start
A new year is the perfect excuse to show your tools some love. Clean, sharp tools make every job easier and kinder to your plants.
- Wipe off dirt and sap
- Sharpen blades
- Oil moving parts
If your pruners have seen better days, Wilkinson Sword Bypass Pruners (£19.99) are a brilliant upgrade — sturdy, precise, and ideal for all those winter tidy‑ups.
Why now? Healthy cuts help prevent disease, and you’ll thank yourself when pruning season kicks in properly.
Start chitting your seed potatoes
It might feel early, but January is the perfect time to get seed potatoes ready for the season ahead. Pop them somewhere cool and bright — an egg box on a windowsill works perfectly — and let them sprout sturdy little shoots.
You can pick up seed potatoes from £4.99, and getting them started now gives you a lovely head start for spring planting.
Why now? Chitting encourages stronger growth and earlier harvests. It’s a tiny job with a big payoff.
A gentle garden tidy
Nothing dramatic — just a bit of pottering.
- Sweep paths
- Clear fallen leaves
- Tidy borders
- Check pots for frost damage
These small tasks help early bulbs push through and make your outdoor space feel calmer and more inviting.
Why now? A tidy garden makes it easier to spot new growth… and it’s surprisingly good for your wellbeing.
Look after your feathered friends
Food is scarce in winter, and birds burn a lot of energy staying warm. A little support goes a long way.
- Put out high‑energy food
- Keep feeders clean
- Refresh water regularly (melt ice with warm water)
Why now? Healthy birds help keep pests down later in the year — and watching them is a joy on grey days.
Plan your growing year
Grab a notebook and start dreaming.
- What worked last year?
- What do you want to grow more of?
- Which beds need refreshing?
- What seeds do you already have?
Planning now means you’ll hit spring feeling organised instead of overwhelmed.
Why now? It’s the perfect cosy‑indoors job for cold days.
A little January boost
Even ten minutes outside can lift your mood. Notice the small things — the first snowdrops, the lengthening days, the smell of damp earth. Spring is closer than it feels!