January Gardening Tips

Posted by Hilda M. Morrill

January 3, 2011

This is a good time to assess your winter landscape to note which areas could benefit from additional plants next year. Tall ornamental grasses and perennials that produce seeds or pods on sturdy stems will add visual interest poking through the snow.

Some small trees and shrubs hold onto their berries throughout the winter; others are prized for interesting bark. Evergreens always provide contrast to the snow around them.

Pay special attention to your houseplants to keep them looking healthy. The sun is weaker, so move plants to brighter windows, if possible.

Combat low indoor humidity by grouping plants together, checking their soil frequently and watering thoroughly with room-temperature water whenever the soil feels dry a little below the surface. Wipe stems and leaf surfaces (upper and lower) with a soft wet rag, to remove dust and allow maximum light penetration.

We are urged to indulge ourselves occasionally with a bouquet of flowers or a new flowering plant as a reminder that spring will arrive, eventually.

One needn't spend lots of money for flowers that last several weeks. Long-lasting cut flowers include mums, mini-carnations, alstroemerias (poor man's orchids), and statice.

If you haven't done it already, it's time to take down Christmas trees and the holiday wreaths and garlands made from real evergreens before they dry excessively and become fire hazards. Use them to provide additional protective cover for strawberry plants, bulb beds, and perennial gardens outdoors.

(We thank our dear friend Deborah Brown, Professor Emeritus at the University of Minnesota Extension, for these great tips.)