East Dean and Friston
February Garden Tasks
East Dean and Friston Gardening club
Sowing and Planting
• Sow early broad beans, peas, and hardy salad crops under cover.
• Start chilli, pepper, and aubergine seeds indoors with heat.
• Chit seed potatoes in a light, cool place.
Pruning and Cutting back
• Finish pruning apple and pear trees before bud burst.
• Prune autumn-fruiting raspberries down to the ground.
• Cut back winter jasmine and wisteria after flowering.
Harvesting
• Continue harvesting leeks, parsnips, cabbages, and kale.
• Pick forced rhubarb stems as they become ready.
• Check stored fruit and vegetables regularly for rot.
Watering and Feeding
•Water seedlings indoors sparingly to avoid damping off.
• Top up water for containers kept under cover.
• Avoid feeding until growth starts in spring.
Houseplants
• Resume light feeding as days lengthen.
• Check for early pests like aphids and red spider mite.
• Turn plants weekly for even growth
Wildlife & Ponds
• Continue feeding birds with high-energy food.
• Provide fresh, unfrozen water for wildlife.
• Remove debris from ponds but avoid disturbing hibernating animals.
Lawn Care
• Rake out moss and debris in mild, dry spells.
• Edge lawn borders to neaten appearance.
• Prepare mower for first cut next month.
General Maintenance
• Clean and sharpen tools before the main season begins.
• Lay new paths or repair paving while growth is dormant.
• Check garden structures and replace broken supports.
Greenhouse
• Sow tomatoes in heated propagators or on windowsills.
• Check overwintered fuchsias, geraniums, and tender plants for growth.
• Ventilate on sunny days to reduce condensation.
Leisure ( And Finally….)
• Visit snowdrop gardens for seasonal colour.
• Force bulbs indoors for a cheerful display.
• Take time to enjoy lengthening days and signs of spring.
Paths, Fences & Tools
• Repair fences and trellis before climbers start growing.
• Check for frost damage on outdoor pots and containers.
• Organise sheds and greenhouses ready for spring.
Planning & Admin
• Finalise seed orders and plan sowing schedule.
• Organise seed packets by sowing month.
• Consider joining local seed swaps or plant fairs.
