Gardens And Verses: January Tips

“Anyone who thinks that gardening begins in the spring and ends in the fall is missing the best part of the whole year; for gardening begins in January with the dream.”
— Josephine Neuse
• Recycle/compost your Christmas tree and greens. Save wreath forms to make your own next year, or give to those who will use them.
• Brush heavy snow off shrubs and conifers to protect them from limb breakage.
• Late in the month, prune evergreen shrubs (yew, holly, and boxwoods) and evergreen trees (spruce, fir) when they are still dormant and before new growth begins.
• If soil is workable and dry, then deep water when the daytime temperature will remain above 45 degrees for several hours. Water slowly so that it soaks 8–12 inches into the soil.
• Plan your garden and shop for new seeds and plants.
• Repot houseplants that have outgrown their pots.
• Continue to fill your bird feeders. The birds need nourishment to get through the winter. Consider a heater for your birdbath.
• If you want a tree from Denver Digs Trees, sign up this month at theparkpeople.com so you will receive notice in time to apply. Northeast Park Hill is a target area for lower canopy, $10 trees.
This year’s Park Hill Garden Walk is set for June 9. To volunteer or suggest local gardens or artists that could be featured, please contact Patty Mead at prmead416@gmail.com or Carla Finch at carla.j.finch@gmail.com.