January is a time for forward planning and although the weather keeps me indoors more at this time than any other month, my to do list is no shorter. I’m cleaning, sharpening and planning now in preparation for the arrival of the growing season and you should be too!

First thing on my agenda is a day in the tool shed. Proper maintenance is vital if you want to get the most out of your tools and although I treat them with care throughout the year, I like to give all my tools a good going over at this time. We’re slap bang in the middle of the window for winter pruning fruit trees and I can’t stress the importance enough of having sharp tools for this job.

My secateurs and loppers get taken apart, cleaned, sharpened and oiled and the pruning saw gets a new blade (though I changed mine in November so it doesn’t need changing currently). Spades, shears, edging knives and hoes are given the same treatment.

Check on last seasons newly planted trees and shrubs. The weather has been wild and although you firmed them in well at the time, they may need re-firming and staking.

It’s really important that you reduce the amount of wind rock as much as possible - if the roots can’t establish, the plant won’t grow.

Unfortunately with a busy work schedule, I’ve no time for a veg plot but if you’re lucky enough to have a patch of earth to call your own, now is the time to get out the seed catalogue and start buying seeds before the rush. Get organised and make your shopping list early - you’ll have a good shot at getting the cultivars you want and the pick of the more unusual varieties if you fancy trying something different this year.

Winter is the perfect time to start planning your garden so that work can begin when the better weather arrives. By summer you’ll have made your winter dream a reality. With the garden currently at it’s barest, it’s easy to see what’s out of balance and where it’s necessary to add structure either in the form of plants or hard landscaping.

Rejuvenate existing borders with lush, new planting schemes and make 2016 the year your garden really takes your breath away with stunning planting combinations.

Decide on a colour themed border for the front garden to complement the style of your house or really mix it up with a tropical summer border full of hot colours and half hardy exotics.

The garden is your oyster!

It won’t be long before you’re enjoying the fruits of your labour, glass in hand at your first summer BBQ!