Gardening tips for the ornamental garden in January
The garden is at rest—but not completely. In January, many things happen in secret: Plants prepare for budding, birds search for food, and we gardeners use the time for tending, planning, and a little kick-start to the coming season. If you'd like, you can even start sowing summer flowers.

Keep an eye on evergreen and sensitive plants
Plants also need attention in winter: evergreens such as boxwood, cherry laurel or holly evaporate moisture even in cold weather.
Water during dry weather on frost-free days, especially for plants in pots. Protect sensitive perennials or shrubs with leaves, fleece, or brushwood—and check that the winter protection is still in place.
Snow – friend or foe?
A continuous blanket of snow protects perennials, flower bulbs, and woody plants like a natural insulation layer. However, you should carefully shake off excessive weights on branches or evergreen shrubs, otherwise branches could break.
Admire and protect winter bloomers
Even in the cold season, the garden shows color: Christmas roses, snowdrops, witch hazel and winter jasmine defy the cold.
To ensure they survive the season, keep them free of leaves and heavy snow. After flowering, only remove faded flower heads—they need the leaves for energy for the following year.
Pre-grow summer flowers – early flowering guaranteed!
If you want to enjoy a lush display of flowers this summer, you can start now: Some summer flowers can be started as early as January. These include:
- Snapdragon
- Petunias
- Begonias
- Pelargoniums (Geraniums)
- Hussar's Button (Sanvitalia)
Use a bright windowsill or a mini greenhouse with supplemental light. Maintain consistent humidity and temperatures around 18–22°C – then you can plant strong, early-flowering young plants in the bed in spring. Now is also the perfect time toOrder flower seedsand create a sowing plan.

Check flower bulbs
If you didn't plant all your bulbs in the fall, or if they were stored, now's the time to check them. Discard any soft or moldy bulbs and store healthy ones in a cool, dry, and airy place. If you want to bring the scent of spring into your home, you can force hyacinths or daffodils in pots.
Support birds
In January, wild birds are especially scarce. A well-placed feeding station will help them survive the cold days. Sunflower seeds, oatmeal, unsalted peanuts, and fatty foods are suitable. Keep feeding stations clean to prevent the transmission of diseases.
Forge garden ideas
When everything is quiet outside, it's time to plan inside: Design new beds, revise planting plans, consider visual axes, perennial partnerships, or new color combinations. Browse seed catalogs and gardening books—and create your wish list for the coming season.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about ornamental gardens in January
Can I sow summer flowers in January?
Yes – you can now start growing varieties like snapdragons, geraniums, or begonias indoors. Plenty of light and consistent warmth are essential.
What flowers bloom outside in January?
Christmas roses, snowdrops, winter jasmine and witch hazel bring colour to the hibernating plants and are already visible depending on the weather.
What happens to flower bulbs that I didn't plant in the fall?
If they are healthy, you can put them in pots and grow them on the windowsill – or plant them in the garden bed in spring.
Do I need to water in January?
Only in frost-free weather – and only evergreen or potted plants that are visibly dry.
How can I plan my garden sensibly now?
Use quiet hours to sketch out your garden beds, plan your sowing plans, select varieties, and choose color combinations. Being well-prepared will help you start the new gardening year more relaxed.