January is often seen as a quiet month in the garden, but it’s actually a very important time to prepare for the year ahead. With plants dormant and growth slowed, it’s the perfect opportunity to carry out essential maintenance, protect vulnerable plants, and get your garden ready for a strong spring start.

At CG Garden Services, we help homeowners across Eastbourne and surrounding areas keep their gardens tidy, healthy, and well maintained all year round. Here are the key garden tasks to focus on in January.

Tidy Up and Clear Debris

Winter weather can leave gardens looking messy, with fallen leaves, dead plants, and debris collecting on lawns and borders. Clearing these now helps prevent pests, disease, and waterlogging.

• Remove fallen leaves from lawns and pathways

• Cut back dead or damaged plant growth

• Clear debris from flower beds and borders

A tidy garden not only looks better but also makes ongoing maintenance much easier.

Pruning and Cutting Back

January is an ideal time to prune many trees and shrubs while they are dormant. Correct pruning encourages healthy growth and better flowering later in the year.

• Prune apple and pear trees

• Cut back roses (where appropriate)

• Remove damaged or crossing branches

Always avoid pruning during severe frost, as this can damage plants.

Lawn Care in Winter

Although grass growth is minimal, lawns still benefit from some winter attention.

• Keep lawns clear of leaves to prevent moss

• Avoid walking on frozen or waterlogged grass

• Edge lawns to maintain a neat appearance

If moss is a recurring problem, January is a good time to plan treatments for early spring.

Protect Plants from Frost

Frost can cause significant damage, especially during cold snaps.

• Wrap vulnerable plants with fleece or hessian

• Raise pots off the ground to improve drainage

• Move tender plants into greenhouses or sheltered areas

These simple steps can prevent costly losses later in the year.

Fence, Path & Hard Landscaping Checks

Winter is a great time to inspect hard landscaping while plants are dormant.

• Check fences for storm damage

• Look for loose paving slabs or trip hazards

• Clear weeds and moss from paths and driveways

Addressing these issues now helps keep your garden safe and presentable.

Plan Ahead for Spring

January is also the perfect planning month.

• Decide on new planting schemes

• Plan garden redesigns or improvements

• Book regular garden maintenance in advance

Getting organised early means you’ll be ready as soon as the weather improves.

Need Help with Your Garden This January?

If winter garden jobs feel overwhelming or you’d simply prefer a professional finish, CG Garden Services is here to help. We provide reliable, high-quality garden maintenance and clearance services throughout Eastbourne and the surrounding areas.

Call CG Garden Services today on 07832 139653 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Let us take care of your garden so it’s ready to thrive in the months ahead.