January Gardening Checklist: Kickstart Your Garden Year!

The holiday buzz has settled, and a brand-new year of gardening awaits! January might feel like a quiet month, but there are plenty of ways to set yourself up for success in the seasons ahead. Whether you’re an indoor plant enthusiast, a container gardener, or someone dreaming of spring blooms, our January gardening checklist will inspire you to dig in—even if it’s just planning for now!

1. Organize Your Seeds and Plan Your Garden

• Sort through your seed collection and make a list of what you need to restock.
• Dream up your garden layout! Sketch a plan or use garden planning apps to decide what to plant where.
• Research new varieties of vegetables, flowers, or herbs to try this year. (Pro tip: Ship My Plants offers an array of unique plants and seeds to spark your creativity!)

2. Care for Your Indoor Plants

Give your houseplants some TLC. Wipe down dusty leaves to improve photosynthesis.

• Check for pests like spider mites or fungus gnats, and treat any issues promptly.
• Rotate your plants to ensure even growth.
• Consider adding a grow light to brighten dark corners, especially if winter’s shorter days are taking a toll.

3. Start Early Seeds Indoors

• It’s time to start seeds for slow-growers like onions, leeks, and certain perennial flowers.
• Use seed trays, a heat mat, and a grow light to give them the best start.
• Keep a journal to track your seed-starting dates and progress—future you will thank you!

4. Tend to Trees and Shrubs

• Prune dormant trees and shrubs (except spring bloomers—save those for after they flower!).
• Check for any damage caused by winter storms and address it promptly.
• Apply a fresh layer of mulch to protect roots from extreme cold.

5. Feed the Birds

• Set up or refill bird feeders to support feathered friends during the colder months.
• Clean bird feeders regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
• Consider planting berry-producing shrubs next season to provide natural bird food.

6. Prep Your Tools and Supplies

• Clean and sharpen garden tools so they’re ready for spring.
• Check your gardening gloves, pots, and supplies—replace anything that’s worn or broken.
• Stock up on soil, fertilizer, and other essentials now to avoid springtime shortages.

7. Dream Big with New Additions

• Winter is a fantastic time to research and shop for new plants! Explore options like:
  • Cold-hardy perennials to plant in early spring.
  • Summer-blooming bulbs like lilies and dahlias.
  • Indoor plants to brighten your home during the winter months.
• Don’t miss the great selection at Ship My Plants to find everything you need!

8. Compost and Soil Health

• If you’ve been composting, turn your pile to keep it active. Add kitchen scraps and dry materials to balance it out.
• Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels so you can amend it before planting season.
• Consider starting a worm bin indoors for a year-round composting solution!

9. Enjoy the Beauty of Winter

• Take a stroll through your garden or local park and appreciate the structure and textures of winter landscapes.
• Bring the outdoors in by forcing bulbs like hyacinths or paperwhites for a touch of spring indoors.

This January, let’s embrace the quiet beauty of winter while planning for the seasons ahead. With thoughtful preparation and a dash of creativity, your garden’s 2025 season will bloom brighter than ever. Happy gardening!