Spring is just around the corner, and whilst you’re busy ordering your seeds you should also think about preparing your ground, maintaining your equipment and planning your outdoor space. Here’s seven outdoor activities you should be thinking about this month:
Clearing the debris
Whilst the trees and bushes are bare and the grass remains short, now is a good time to cut back any branches or leaves that have fallen, are diseased or dead. An easy method is to use heavy duty garden sacks, or use a tarpaulin - place it on the ground and throw anything unwanted on it then use the corner holes to tie it together and transport to your green bins or straight to the tip.
Clean greenhouse
The greenhouse is about to get a lot of use again, but whilst it is still vacant now is the time to remove any algae, mould or dirt. Simple washing up liquid and water will remove the dirt, you could also use a specialist algae cleaner, a long handed brush will help you reach the roof panes, a scrubbing brush with hard bristles for the tough areas, and a synthetic chamois cloth will leave the results streak free. If you have any loose glass panels, apply some glazing clips to re-secure them.
Strengthen fence panels/pagodas/outside woodwork
Wood that’s been outside all through the winter will have had a tough time dealing with wind, rain and snow. Some self-tapping concrete/masonry bolts will add extra strength to joints, clout nails will hold down loose shed felting, and annular ring nails will be ideal for fence panels. You can also prepare the wood for any further weathering by applying some Boiled Linseed Oil – the perfect sealer for wooden garden furniture. Use teak oil for hardwoods.
Cleaning and preparing patio
Inspect your patio stones – if they have mould, stains, or fungus on then they can be easily cleaned with some patio cleaner. You can also use moss, algae and mould remover for something a little stronger. If you find that the slabs seem uneven you may need to relay the stones. Try using a chalk line to see the slippage and deep gap ready mix filler for any repairs needed.
Maintain your lawnmower and strimmer
Whilst your outdoor electrical items take a rest, now is the time to give them a spruce up. Replace mower blades, strimmer lines, fix mower starter handles etc. It may also be a good time to clean up the barbecue ready for the warmer months.
Deter unwanted bird nesting
There are some birds we love to loath, like pigeons. If you have an area of your property that is prone to pigeon nesting take the opportunity now to place some professional bird spikes on these areas. They work on windowsills, ledges, walls and guttering.
Preparing for your plants
Whilst your small shrubs and trees are sleeping, take the time now to give them some cane support secured with adjustable plant ties. For creepers, apply a network of galvanised wire for them to climb up. You may be ready to plant your broad beans so a wigwam garden cane grip will help secure the canes in advance. For your seed trays try a gardening fork and dibber, and don’t forget to label your seeds so you know what’s what!