January Garden To-Dos
January is the perfect time to sit down with seed catalogs and begin planning for the upcoming growing season. New seeds typically arrive in stores between January and February, and making selections early ensures the best availability. Herbs and wildflower seeds perform especially well when planted in spring for abundant summer growth.
Houseplants should be checked regularly for brown leaf tips, which often indicate low humidity during winter. Most tropical plants prefer humid conditions, and indoor heating can dry the air significantly. Humidity can be increased by placing plants on trays filled with pebbles and water. By setting the pots on top of the pebbles, the roots remain out of standing water while humidity increases around the plant. During winter dormancy, houseplants require less water. Allow soil to dry to the depth of an index finger joint before watering, which is often about every two weeks.
Winter is also an ideal time to apply soil amendments to garden beds. Freezing and thawing cycles help work organic matter into the soil naturally. Rotating amendments through ornamental beds and adding them annually to vegetable gardens improves soil structure, increases nutrient availability, and makes it easier for roots to grow deeper. Healthy roots are essential to healthy plants. Common amendments include Leaf-Gro, Coast of Maine Quoddy Compost Blend, Coast of Maine Penobscot Planting Mix, dehydrated cow manure, and mushroom compost.
When treating sidewalks and steps for ice, care should be taken to prevent salt runoff into planted areas. Salt accumulation can damage or kill plants. In areas near landscaping, consider alternatives such as magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, sand, or kitty litter. Pet-safe ice melt products do not contain sodium. If salt damage becomes evident, gypsum can be applied at a rate of 40 pounds per 1,000 square feet to help dissipate salt buildup.
In snowy areas where rodents such as field mice and voles are present, young trees should be checked for bark damage. When snow limits predator activity, rodents may tunnel underneath and chew bark for food. This can girdle and kill young trees. Wrapping trunks with hardware cloth provides effective protection.
January is also a good time to observe the garden and make notes for spring changes. When planning new plantings, it is important to consider mature height and width, as well as environmental needs. Selecting plants suited to their location and researching reputable sources helps prevent future issues.
During periods of dry, cold, and windy winter weather, broadleaf evergreens and conifers exposed to prevailing winds may need protection. Wind desiccation occurs when frozen ground prevents roots from replacing moisture lost through foliage, resulting in browning known as winter burn. Wrapping plants or providing wind protection can reduce damage. Rhododendrons naturally respond to cold by folding their leaves, a reversible process called thermonasty.
Finally, winter wildlife support remains important. Keep bird feeders filled and offer water when possible. Birds rely on clean feathers to trap heat, and access to water helps them maintain insulation during cold months.
