What to do in the garden in January

Start chitting your first early potatoes by placing them in a cool, bright but frost-free place. To find out more about growing potatoes in containers or in the ground take a look at our article on how to grow your own potatoes.

Force rhubarb plants by covering the crown with a bucket. This will produce tender pink stems ready for eating in about 8 weeks time.

January is the time to start pruning wisteria cutting back all the side-shoots pruned last summer. Cut these shoots to within 2 or 3 buds of the main framework.

Make sure you prune your apple trees and pear trees while they are still dormant. Order fruit trees online now ready for spring delivery.

Clear up your perennial borders by cutting down any old dead stems to make way for new growth. Take care not to cut into any new growth.

Continue to plant trees and shrubs - unless the soil is waterlogged or has frozen solid! Click here for more advice about planting trees and shrubs.

Plant bare-root roses now, choosing a position in full sun for the best flowering. You can also prune your roses now. For more advice about roses, including climbing roses take a look at our 'How to grow roses' article.

Brush off heavy snow from your hedges and conifers to prevent branches snapping or becoming misshapen. Also brush snow off your greenhouse roof to prevent the glass cracking.

Keep an eye on any fruits, vegetables or flower tubers in storage and remove any that are rotting. One rotten item could spoil the whole crop!

Make sure you order asparagus crowns, potatoes and onion sets now in time for spring planting.

Keep dead-heading your winter pansies to stop them setting seed and to encourage more flowers.