February is an exciting time in the garden because there are real signs
that spring is on its way. By the end of February most bulbs are really out and
drifts of daffodils and pockets of crocuses are giving wonderful displays – on sunny
days it is easy to see that spring is just around the corner. Some bulbs are
even ready for dividing and planting in the green – snowdrops in particular do
well when planted in this way and many gardeners, having been disappointed by
the first few years of snowdrops after planting as bulbs can really see a
difference when they have had the opportunity to plant and divide in this way.
Winter flowering shrubs are ready for pruning in February and if the blossom is
showing on apricots, nectarines and peaches it is a good idea to protect it
with some fleece for a week or so – it is still more than possible that there
will be some snow, even at the end of the month and frosts are still very
likely and may be hard.