As the new year begins, many gardeners are eager to get a head start on the growing season.
But jumping in too early can backfire, leading to disappointing results later.
Why Sowing Too Early Can Be a Costly Mistake
According to gardening experts from Mirror, one of the most common mistakes in January is sowing seeds too soon. The short winter days and lack of natural light can cause seedlings to become weak and leggy, significantly reducing their chances of survival.
Well-known gardening YouTuber Niall Gardens warns that impatient planting often leads to stressed and fragile plants that struggle to grow properly. This issue is especially problematic in the dark winter months, when young seedlings don’t receive enough sunlight to develop strong roots and sturdy stems.
What You Can Do Instead
While waiting for the right time to plant, there are plenty of productive gardening tasks to focus on in January:
Trim bushes and tidy up flower beds to clear out dead plant material.
Clean and sharpen garden tools to ensure they’re ready for the season.
Repair damaged structures, such as trellises and fences, before new growth makes access difficult.
For those who are eager to start planting, there are still smart ways to prepare without risking weak seedlings.
Cleaning seed trays, organizing seeds, and creating a planting calendar will help ensure a smooth and successful growing season when the time is right.
