Although it's a bit early to dive into full spring and summer gardening tasks, there's still plenty you can do now to prepare for the season ahead. Whether you're planting, pruning, or simply getting your tools ready, February can be a crucial month for maintaining a healthy and thriving garden.
Great Time to Plant
February is actually a great time to plant a few hardy varieties that can withstand Georgia's late winter chill. These plants will thrive and set the stage for a colorful spring.
Roses
Now's the time to plant bare-root roses. They'll have time to establish strong roots before the warmer spring months. Look for varieties suited for Georgia's climate and be sure to plant them in a sunny spot.
Poppies
If you love early spring color, plant poppies now! These cold-tolerant beauties will start sprouting as temperatures rise, adding some vibrancy to your garden.
Winter Daphne
This fragrant shrub is one of the first to bloom in late winter. It will fill your garden with a sweet scent and provide much-needed color when little else is blooming.
Other Perennials & Shrubs
Sweet peas, primroses, and witch hazel are also great options for planting in February. They'll thrive in the cooler temperatures and provide texture and color when winter's grip starts to loosen in the coming months.
Sweet Pea
Primrose
Witch Hazel
Before you start planting this month, take a look at UGA Extension's Plant Hardiness Zone Map to make sure you're picking plants that thrive in your area. If you're unsure of what plants you may want this season, this Flowering Perennials for Georgia Gardens guide can help.
Great Time to Prune
February is prime time for pruning, especially if you want to shape your plants and prepare them for new growth in spring. Pruning helps remove dead or diseased growth and encourages new growth as the season changes. Make sure to wait for all danger of frost has passed before pruning.
Roses: Prune back your rose bushes by about one-third to remove any dead or damaged stems. This will help shape the bush and encourage growth in the spring.Fruit Trees: If you have fruit trees like apple, pear or peach, now is the time to prune them. Remove any crossing branches and thin out the tree to help it produce more fruit later.
Deciduous Shrubs & Trees: Prune any shrubs or trees that haven't started budding yet. But avoid pruning early bloomers like forsythia, because you don't want to cut off the beautiful flowers.
Other Perennials: If you didn't have time to cut back your perennials in the fall, February is a good time to do it to encourage fresh growth.
Great Time to Prep
Before you start planting, take some time to prep your soil. This includes tilling your garden beds to loosen the dirt, improve air flow, and make it easier for roots to grow deep and strong. Also, take a moment to check on your garden tools. Nothing is more frustrating than starting the season with dull pruners or a broken mower. A little prep and care now will save you a lot of time later.
Tilling Gardens
Ensure the soil is slightly dry before tilling. Wet soil can become compacted and difficult to work with. If you haven't already, spread a layer of compost over your garden beds and till it in, as it is a great time to enrich your soil.
Getting Your Tools Ready
Sharpen Mower Blades: Dull mower blades tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can stress your lawn. Make sure your mower blades are sharp to ensure a healthier, greener lawn.
Check Pruners & Trimmers: Clean and oil your pruning shears and hedge trimmers to ensure they're in good working condition for the pruning season.
Inspect Other Garden Tools: Check your tiller, spades, and other gardening tools to make sure everything is ready for action. Fix any issues now before you're in the middle of a big gardening project.
Caring for Your Lawn
Pre-Emergent Herbicide: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds like crabgrass from sprouting as temperatures rise. February is the ideal time to treat your lawn for spring weeds.
Check for Lawn Damage: Winter weather can cause brown or thinning patches in your lawn. If you notice damaged areas, keep an eye on them and plan to reseed once the temperatures warm up.
February is great for preparing your garden for the coming season! Whether you're planting roses, pruning your trees, or getting your tools ready, there's a lot you can do to get ahead for spring. And don't forget that you can always reach out to us at AgroPro Lawncare Specialists for help with any tasks that feel overwhelming.