February: Monthly Gardening To Do list

As the winter begins to loosen its grip and the first hints of spring start to peek through, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your garden. Here in Illinois, February is an important month for gardeners, as it’s the time to start getting your garden ready for the growing season ahead.

Assess the condition of your garden

One of the first things to do on your gardening to-do list in February is to assess your garden’s condition. Walk around and look for any winter damage, such as broken branches or damaged plants. If you find any, prune them back and dispose of the debris. This will help ensure your garden is healthy and ready for spring.

Prepare your soil for planting

Next, start preparing your soil for planting. February is a great time to apply compost or other organic matter to your garden beds. This will help to improve the soil structure and provide essential nutrients for your plants. You can also start testing your soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content. This will help you to know what amendments, such as lime or fertilizer, your soil may need.

Plan your garden

Another important task for your February gardening to-do list is planning your garden. Decide what you want to grow and where you want to plant it. This will help you to make the most of your space and ensure that your garden is successful. You can also start ordering seeds or plants now, so you’ll be ready to start planting when the weather warms up.

Start thinking about pest control

February is also a great time to start thinking about pest control. Winter can be tough on garden pests, but as the weather starts to warm up, they’ll emerge from their hiding places. Start thinking about how you’ll control pests in your garden, such as using organic methods or choosing plants resistant to pests.

Take care of your garden tools

Finally, don’t forget to take care of your garden tools. February is a great time to clean and sharpen your tools so they’re ready to go when you need them. This will help to ensure that your tools are in good working order and will make your gardening tasks easier and more efficient.

Conclusion

Overall, February is an important month for gardeners in Illinois. By preparing your garden now, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running when spring arrives. So get started on your gardening to-do list and prepare for a successful growing season!