In the garden: 9 great tips for gardeners for the year ahead 

The start of a new year in the garden is always a time for some reflection, taking stock, making plans, but usually physically doing very little as the weather generally does not allow!

It can be a good time to get the shed sorted, take a peep into the seed box, to see what is needed and what can be discarded, and make a wish list for growing in 2026.

Basically, it is a time to try to do all of the jobs that I normally put off, preferring to get gardening jobs like pruning, planting and weeding done.

The weather dictates matters for gardeners at this time of year - and go against it and you will likely make more work ultimately.

It is a time instead to take stock of the growing year just passed and make plans for the one that lies ahead.

These are some of the things foremost in my mind from my own gardening experience in 2025.

1. More tree planting, and not just native trees

With our climate changing, increased intense rainfall, periods of drought and wind events becoming the most obvious challenges in the past few years, the need for growing trees that can cope with these adverse conditions is becoming more apparent.

These are trees that have evolved under different climatic conditions and could do well in our temperate climate. They will offer diversity and adaptability, and alongside our own native trees will help to increase sustainable tree cover for the future.

Planting native trees is good also, of course, as they provide a familiar and valuable habitat for our flora and fauna to thrive in.

2. More consideration for water run-off and how this can be lessened

With building works on the increase throughout the country, we need to consider how we manage all of the run-off from the increased amount of roads, footpaths. and hard landscaping surface.

How can we alleviate the pressure being placed on our watercourses, particularly during heavy rainfall. Are there permeable alternatives for hard surfacing? Can we increase planting to help?

This is not somebody else’s problem, we can all be part of the solution by doing our bit and taking a more considered approach.

3. Fewer plastics

The amount of microplastics making their way into our waterways is out of control. We need to consider particularly single use plastics and what are the alternatives.

Getting back compostable packaging, refilling and reusing will all play a part in a better future.

4. Less peat

As the value of our bogs as carbon stores is being realised, now we know using peat in horticulture has to stop. Gradually, there are more peat free options becoming available. The problem is that peat is such a good growing substrate with plenty of air available to encourage healthy plant roots that it is proving difficult to find a comparable substitute.

Awareness is there now and research is ongoing. There is also a willingness to do the right thing and be more sustainable for the future.

5. More composting

Recycling our own green waste on-site in the garden makes sense. Doing it in such a way that does not attract vermin is the key as this is a major factor as to why people do not undertake composting.

Good housekeeping and organisation can help. Knowing what waste not to add to the compost like cooked meets and fish as these are big factors in attracting vermin.

Start simply and build on success, composting grass clippings from the summer and leaves gathered in autumn for the winter initially, and let the composting bug grow! It is a very addictive business.

6. More variety, less uniformity in planting to encourage different habitats

Creating layers within the garden will not only maximise on interest and cover for the soil, it will also create multi-layered habitats for native flora and fauna to call their home.

It will also create more visual and seasonal interest as the more plants, the more flower, texture and features of interest throughout the growing year.

7. More weeds… in selective spots, and selective weeds

I never anticipated seeing the beauty in dandelion seed heads as the wind scatters their seeds, but there you go! Taking the time to watch them as the sun goes down in early summer is as much anticipated as the first snowdrop for me.

It indicates summers arrival and also supports more insect and bird life in the garden.

Watching finches and sparrows feeding on their seeds is food for the soul and at the heart of what gardening is all about for me.

8. Less weedkillers and harmful chemical use in the garden as we acknowledge the damage that has been caused during decades of the overuse of toxic substances

We now have a greater knowledge of the harm they do and have choices to control pests, diseases and weeds in a more informed, educated manner.

Less grass cutting, allowing more areas of long grass to develop and removing the clippings is key to preventing fertility build up.

Native wildflowers will self-seed and establish better on poorer soil where grass will not compete as well. Wilder patches in the garden are a haven for insects and birds, providing food and refuge.

9. More yoga, it is so useful to keep fit and flexible when working physically

The best plan is to stay ahead of injuries and yoga is a great way of moving gently with not too much pressure on the joints.

Gardening can be quite physical depending on the job so keeping fit and limber helps with the enjoyment of the more challenging aspects which may need to be undertaken in the springtime.

Wishing everyone a peaceful, happy and productive 2026 in the garden and in life.