“So, What Do Professional Gardeners Do in the Winter Months?“
It’s a question I get asked all the time. A lot of people assume there’s not a lot that can be done in the garden during the winter; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, I have a little saying:
“What you don’t get done over winter, never gets done.”
While the pace does slow down a bit and lawns stop growing, winter is far from a holiday for gardeners. It’s a brilliant time to get ahead, tackle jobs that often get pushed aside during the busier months, and give the garden the best possible start for the year ahead.
The weather might be on the colder side, but it’s ideal for some of the heavier jobs. Digging over vegetable beds is much easier this time of year, as the ground is more workable and you won’t be fighting through summer growth.
Pruning, Protecting and Tree Work
Winter is the perfect time for pruning. With deciduous trees and shrubs bare of leaves, you can see the structure much more clearly. That makes it easier to shape things properly and spot any issues. Remember the three D’s when pruning: Dead, Diseased, and Dying.
Tree work is always best done in winter. The sap is down, the trees are dormant, and there’s less airborne disease around that could infect fresh cuts. With the leaves gone, you’ve also got a better view of the tree’s shape and how the branches are behaving.
Make sure to check for any branches that are rubbing together—these can cause wounds that lead to infection.
And don’t forget to protect your perennials during the cold winter months!
Clearing Leaves and Debris
Fallen leaves, dead stems, and general debris can build up fast. Left untouched, they can smother lawns, encourage rot, and provide a hiding place for pests.
A good tidy not only keeps everything looking better, it gives your plants room to breathe and stay healthy through the cold months.
Lifting and Dividing Perennials
This one’s best saved for slightly milder weather, but winter is a good time to take stock. Some perennials take over the borders if left unchecked. If you’ve made notes or taken photos during the summer, you’ll know where the big spreaders are.
When the time comes, simply dig them up, divide them, and replant where needed—or share them with friends. Who doesn’t love a free plant?
Planning Ahead for Spring
While the garden might be sleeping, we’re already thinking about spring. Planning beds and borders, ordering seeds and plants, and filling in gaps from last year all happen in the quieter winter months.
If the ground isn’t frozen, it’s a great time to plant bare-root trees and shrubs too.
Compost Bins
Let’s be honest—your compost bins probably haven’t had as much attention as you hoped. But winter’s the perfect time to sort them out.
Build a new bin, turn the contents of the old one into it, and mix in equal parts straw and grass clippings to balance it out. If you managed to make a decent batch last year, now’s the time to spread those nutrients back into your beds. Your plants will thank you for it in spring. Give all your borders a good mulch of compost if you can—at least 4 inches thick. This does three great things at once: it insulates the roots against frost, it feeds the plants, and it enriches the soil. Come spring, it also helps suppress weeds. That’s got to be a winner.
Greenhouse TLC
The greenhouse can get forgotten during winter—but it still needs a bit of care. I use mine to store tender patio plants, but it’s important to remember fungus thrives in warm, damp conditions.
On milder days, give it a good airing. And before spring gets going, give the glass a proper clean with a fungicidal wash.
If winter isn’t too harsh, you can also use your greenhouse to grow winter salads and start early seedlings.
Tool and Equipment Maintenance
Winter is also a time to show your tools a bit of love. Sharpening blades, oiling hinges, and checking over your kit now will save you headaches when things get busy again. It’s also a good time to fix up fences, repair beds, or power-wash patios.
A Gardener’s Winter
Frosty mornings in January and February are some of my favourite memories as a gardener. There’s something magical about being out in the cold crisp air, with the promise of a new season just around the corner. And there’s a real sense of satisfaction knowing you’re already helping the garden come back better than ever.
So no, we’re not on a winter break—we’re just quietly getting things done.
Need a Hand?
If you’d rather not brave the cold or you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. At Cowen Landscapes, we offer year-round garden care—including winter pruning, mulching, planning, and tidying—so your garden’s always one step ahead.
