Gardening expert reveals the four jobs you must do now for vibrant blooms in spring

Experts at the Royal Horticultural Society are urging people to look ahead to spring and start prepping their gardens for the warmer months – despite frost and snow sweeping the UK.

Taking a few simple steps in the winter not only guarantees a beautiful and vibrant yard in summer, but also helps support local wildlife, according to the charity.

Green-thumbed enthusiasts are being encouraged to provide food for birds as well as leaving certain areas of the garden uncut to offer shelter to animals during the colder months.

In addition to these wildlife-friendly tips, the RHS has outlined four key gardening tasks that can make a real difference come spring.

Here’s how to make the best use of the colder months to give your garden the ultimate summer glow-up: 

1. Pruning apple and pear trees

Pruning apple and pear trees can seem intimidating, but it’s critical for encouraging and maintaining healthy fruiting. 

The RHS recommends trimming between 10 to 20 per cent of the overall canopy during winter, as this promotes strong growth and a better harvest when the weather warms.

‘Work around the tree evenly and keep an eye on your pruning pile – if it’s looking a little big, STOP – you can always go back next year and do some more,’ experts at the gardening charity advise.  

They also suggest staggering these pruning cuts throughout the canopy, as well as creating ‘an open centre to your tree’. 

This allows more light into the canopy to ripen the shoots and fruit, while the improved air movement discourages diseases. 

Pruning apple and pear trees can seem intimidating, but it’s a critical job for encouraging and maintaining healthy fruiting (stock image)

2. Cleaning pots and greenhouses 

Cleaning your pots, planters, and greenhouse is a vital step in creating an optimal growing environment for plants. 

Over time, algae, moss and grime can build up on glass or plastic surfaces, blocking sunlight. 

The RHS advises thoroughly scrubbing these surfaces with warm water to help plants thrive, as well as reducing the risk of diseases. 

‘All types of growing structures, including glass and plastic greenhouses, polytunnels and garden frames, should be cleaned at least once a year.

‘However, gardeners who use theirs intensively may prefer to carry out cleaning biannually.’ 

The RHS suggests setting aside a day for cleaning your greenhouse, ideally when it is forecast to be mild, dry and calm. 

Cleaning your pots, planters, and greenhouse is a vital step in creating an optimal growing environment for plants (stock image)

3. Regularly watering houseplants

The use of indoor heating during the winter months can dry out house plants, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on their watering needs.  

The appearance of dry and grey roots can indicate your plants are in need of moisture, while green roots are a sign of healthy, hydrated plants. 

The RHS also warns that it is important to regularly check the moisture levels of the soil to prevent overwatering and waterlogging. 

4. Pick and plant winter flowers for a fragrant garden all year round 

Winter-flowering varieties like acacia dealbata can provide a fresh, aromatic start to the season, while azaleas and magnolias will bring beautiful spring blossoms. 

Buddleia, perfect for summer, can add colour and scent throughout the year. 

The RHS suggests planting these in sheltered areas, where the scent can be contained and appreciated.