Winter gardening tips

Winter is a dormant time in the garden but there are still plenty of jobs to be getting on with. Here are seven to tick off before the month’s end.

1 Shred your Christmas tree for mulch The best way to recycle and reuse your tree.

2 Prune apple and pear trees Take out old wood – but not just top branches – to stimulate new growth. Aim to take off 10–20%.

3 Inspect stored tubers and bulbs for rot Tubers should be stored in trays in a cool place.

4 Sow peas indoors to plant out in spring Place seeds in individual 8cm-deep pots.

5 Top up bird-feeders and water bowls Fat-balls plus nuts and seeds in feeders are a significant winter survival aid for garden birds.

6 Start forcing rhubarb Cover the rhubarb crown with an upturned pot or bucket, ensuring all the light is blocked out.

7 Order seeds for your vegetable patch Sketch out a plan of your patch on paper first, making sure to rotate your crops after last year.