February Gardening Advice for Trees in the UK

Table of Contents

• What Tree and Shrub Care Is Needed in February?

• Why Is February Important for Soil Preparation?

• What Should I Plant in February?

• What Garden Maintenance Jobs Should Be Done in February?

• February Gardening Advice for Trees UK Round-Up

• FAQs

February’s cool UK soils support steady root establishment before spring growth begins.

February is one of the best months in the UK to prepare trees, shrubs, and hedging for spring growth.

During February, gardeners should focus on checking stakes and ties, firming soil around newly planted trees, improving soil structure, applying mulch, and completing late winter planting while plants remain dormant.

At Bowhayes Trees, where we grow and supply trees specifically for UK conditions, we see February as one of the most important months for long-term tree performance. Although plants remain largely dormant above ground, rising soil temperatures allow roots to establish steadily. This makes February ideal for late planting, soil preparation, mulching, and essential maintenance, helping trees flower more reliably and cope better with dry conditions later in the year.

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What Tree and Shrub Care Is Needed in February?

February is a transitional month for ornamental trees, shrubs, and hedging, as rising soil temperatures and longer daylight hours increase root activity beneath the surface.

Key February tree care tasks include:

• Checking stakes and ties after winter storms

• Firming soil around newly planted trees and hedging

• Watering evergreen trees during dry, frost-free periods

• Applying mulch to protect roots and stabilise soil temperature

Secure staking and firm soil reduce wind rock during late winter tree establishment in the UK.

Supporting Trees Through Late Dormancy

Although branches may still look bare, trees and shrubs are preparing for growth beneath the soil surface, with root activity increasing in sheltered or free-draining positions.

In our experience, trees that remain stable through late winter establish more evenly once growth resumes, as even minor root movement can disrupt early spring development.

Newly planted trees and hedging should be checked regularly to ensure the soil remains firm around the base. Winter wind and softened ground can loosen roots, so gently firming soil after storms helps prevent wind rock and supports steady establishment, particularly for species such as Silver Birch (Betula pendula), Copper Beech ‘Atropurpurea’ (Fagus sylvatica), and native species, including Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna).

Caring for Evergreens and Structural Trees

Evergreen trees and hedging require particular attention in February. In prolonged dry spells, watering on frost-free days helps prevent leaf scorch and dehydration. This is especially important for broadleaf evergreens and structural trees such as Green Beech (Fagus sylvatica) when young, which benefit from consistent soil moisture as they settle during late winter.

The RHS provides guidance on caring for trees and shrubs during winter, including advice on watering and mulching in cold conditions.

Mulching for Root Protection and Early Growth

Mulching plays an important role in February by stabilising soil temperature and protecting fine roots from late frosts. Organic mulch also helps retain moisture and improves soil structure as it breaks down.

Applying mulch now ensures nutrients become gradually available just as growth resumes, while suppressing early spring weeds. This is particularly beneficial around young ornamental and fruiting trees, including Crab Apple ‘Red Sentinel’ (Malus) and recently planted species such as Flowering Cherry ‘Amanogawa’ (Prunus serrulata), where stable soil conditions support healthy flowering and early development.

The RHS provides clear guidance on mulching trees and shrubs.

Top Tip: Mulching in February helps bridge the gap between winter dormancy and spring growth, reducing stress on roots just as demand begins to increase.

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Why Is February Important for Soil Preparation?

February is an effective month for working on soil and borders, as improvements made now take effect before spring growth begins, while the soil remains workable.

Late winter soil preparation focuses on improving structure, drainage, and nutrient availability so trees, shrubs, and hedging can respond quickly as growth resumes.

February mulching helps regulate soil temperature and moisture as roots become active.

Key soil preparation tasks in February include:

• Clearing fallen leaves and winter debris from around trees and shrubs

• Removing weeds to reduce competition as growth resumes

• Applying compost, leaf mould, or well-rotted manure as a surface mulch

• Checking drainage and addressing waterlogged areas

• Avoid walking on wet soil to prevent compaction

Clearing Borders and Reducing Winter Debris

With herbaceous growth still minimal, February is an ideal time to clear borders around trees and shrubs. Remove fallen leaves, old stems, and any remaining debris, particularly beneath plants that are prone to fungal disease. Clearing this material now reduces overwintering pests and helps prevent the spread of disease as temperatures rise.

Healthy organic matter can be added to the compost heap, while any diseased material should be removed from the garden entirely. Keeping borders tidy at this stage also makes it easier to spot drainage issues or soil compaction before spring planting begins.

Improving Soil Structure Without Digging

Adding organic matter in February is one of the simplest ways to improve long-term soil health. Compost, leaf mould, or well-rotted manure can be spread directly onto the soil surface around trees, shrubs, and hedging without disturbing roots.

Winter rainfall and natural freeze–thaw cycles draw nutrients downward, improving soil structure and moisture retention naturally. This approach is particularly beneficial around established planting and species such as Hazel (Corylus avellana), Field Maple (Acer campestre), and moisture-sensitive trees like Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), which respond well to stable, well-structured soil ahead of spring growth.

Addressing Drainage and Compaction

February often exposes areas where soil remains waterlogged after winter rain. Standing water around tree bases increases the risk of root rot, particularly for young or recently planted trees.

Improving drainage by adding organic matter or horticultural grit helps improve soil structure over time. In heavier soils, raised planting areas or gentle regrading can redirect excess water away from vulnerable roots.

Avoid walking on wet or frozen soil wherever possible, as compaction restricts oxygen availability and slows root development.

Quick Fact: Soil prepared in late winter often warms more evenly in spring, encouraging faster root establishment and healthier early growth.

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What Should I Plant in February?

February is an important month for planting trees and shrubs, as rising soil temperatures encourage root activity before spring growth begins.

Planting now allows roots to settle in cool, moisture-retentive soil, reducing stress as growth resumes and helping plants perform at their best in the months ahead.

In our experience at Bowhayes Trees, trees planted in February consistently establish more evenly in spring than those planted later, particularly spring-flowering varieties such as flowering cherries and magnolias.

Best Trees to Plant in February for Spring Growth

Tree Type	Why Plant in February	Key Benefit	Best for
Flowering Cherry	Roots settle before bud break	Better spring blossom	Ornamental focal points, spring colour
Magnolia	Sensitive roots establish early	Reduced flowering stress	Sheltered gardens, statement trees
Rowan	Cold-tolerant and fast-rooting	Strong wildlife support	Wildlife-friendly gardens, exposed sites
Beech (hedging)	Early establishment before bud break	Denser summer coverage	Formal hedging, privacy screening
Crab Apple	Roots establish before spring flowering	Improved blossom and fruit set	Pollinator gardens, seasonal interest
Hazel	Establishes quickly in cool soil	Early catkins and wildlife value	Native hedging, natural boundaries

Trees planted in February establish early, supporting reliable spring blossom, wildlife value, and balanced growth in UK conditions.

Flowering Cherry – Spring Blossom Performance

Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' is one of the most popular flowering cherries for spring impact, producing abundant pink blossom on an upright, spreading crown. Planting in February gives the tree time to settle before sap flow increases, helping reduce stress during bud break and improving overall flowering performance. Late winter planting also supports stronger structural development over time.

Magnolia – Early Spring Flowering Performance

Magnolia × soulangeana benefits from February planting, as its sensitive root system has time to settle in cool, moist soil before spring growth begins. February planting helps reduce stress as buds swell and supports more reliable flowering. Choosing a sheltered position and minimising root disturbance at planting are key to successful establishment.

Rowan – Wildlife-Friendly Structure

Sorbus aucuparia is a superb tree for late winter planting, offering excellent cold tolerance and strong wildlife value when established before spring growth begins. Planting in February allows roots to establish before spring growth begins, supporting long-term resilience and balanced development.

Beech – Dense Structure for Spring Growth

Fagus sylvatica is an excellent choice for hedging and structural planting where dense coverage is required. February planting allows Fagus sylvatica to establish strong roots before bud break, supporting denser summer growth and more effective screening. Its seasonal foliage and ability to retain leaves in winter make it a valuable long-term feature.

Crab Apple – Decorative Blossom & Fruit

Malus 'Evereste' performs particularly well when planted in late winter, allowing roots to establish ahead of spring flowering and fruit development. Establishing roots in February helps the tree support early flowering and fruit development while reducing transplant stress.

Hazel – Productive and Wildlife-Rich

Corylus avellana establishes quickly when planted in February, making it a reliable choice for native hedging and wildlife-friendly planting. When planted in February, Hazel establishes quickly and develops strong root systems ahead of spring growth, making it a versatile and resilient choice for naturalistic planting.

For further guidance on tree planting and establishment, the Woodland Trust provides clear, practical advice for UK gardeners.

Best Trees for Smaller Gardens to Plant in February

Late winter planting works just as well in smaller gardens, with many compact trees benefiting from early root establishment before spring growth begins.

Trees such as Juneberry (Amelanchier lamarckii) offer delicate spring blossom and a light canopy suited to restricted spaces. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) cultivars also establish well when planted in February, providing refined structure and seasonal colour without overwhelming the garden. Smaller flowering cherries and ornamental apples can also be excellent choices, delivering spring interest without excessive spread.

Forestry England’s tree planting and woodland creation resources include practical guidance on preparing sites, protecting young trees, and establishing strong roots before spring growth begins.

Top Tip: Group container-grown trees and shrubs in sheltered positions during late winter to reduce exposure to cold winds while roots settle.

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What Garden Maintenance Jobs Should Be Done in February?

February is a key month for completing essential garden maintenance before spring growth begins in earnest, while plants remain dormant and disturbance is minimal. Attention to detail now helps reduce stress on trees and shrubs, ensuring a smooth transition into the growing season.

We typically advise completing these tasks before growth accelerates, as late winter maintenance reduces the need for corrective work later in the season.

Key February maintenance tasks include:

• Pruning suitable deciduous trees

• Firming in newly planted trees and hedging

• Clearing debris and checking plant health

• Cleaning bird boxes before nesting season

Late winter maintenance in UK gardens includes checking stakes, firming soil, and preparing wildlife habitats before spring growth begins.

Late Winter Pruning and Hedge Work

Pruning can continue for many deciduous trees and summer-flowering shrubs while they remain dormant. Apples and pears benefit from winter pruning to maintain an open, balanced framework, while summer-flowering shrubs such as Butterfly bush (Buddleja) can be cut back to encourage strong new growth. BBC Gardeners’ World explains which trees and shrubs can be pruned in winter and which are best left until later in the season.

Avoid pruning stone fruit trees, including cherries and plums, as these are best left until summer to reduce the risk of disease. Hedge trimming should also be completed this month, where necessary, particularly for deciduous hedging such as Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium), as bird nesting season typically begins in March and active nests are legally protected.

Firming In and Structural Checks

Late winter weather can loosen soil around newly planted trees and hedging, particularly after frost or strong winds. Walk through the garden and gently firm soil back around the base of young plants to prevent wind rock and protect developing roots at this critical stage.

At the same time, check stakes and ties to ensure young trees remain well supported as conditions begin to change.

Garden Hygiene and Health Checks

February is a good time to clear fallen leaves and debris from around trees and shrubs, especially beneath plants prone to fungal disease. Removing this material now helps reduce overwintering pests and limits the spread of disease as temperatures rise.

Take the opportunity to inspect trees and shrubs for damaged wood, signs of pests, or early disease, addressing issues before growth accelerates in spring.

Supporting Garden Wildlife

Late winter is an ideal time to clean and install bird boxes before nesting season begins. Boxes should be positioned in sheltered locations, ideally facing north or east to avoid strong sunlight and prevailing winds. The RSPB provides guidance on when and where to put up bird feeders.

Continuing to provide high-energy bird food during February helps support birds while natural food sources remain limited. A healthy bird population can also contribute to natural pest control as the garden becomes more active in spring.

Tools, Greenhouse, and Final Preparation

Use this quieter period to clean, sharpen, and oil tools so they are ready for the busy months ahead. Ventilate greenhouses and sheds on mild days to reduce condensation and mould as spring approaches.

Expert Insight: Completing key maintenance tasks in late winter often prevents the need for reactive treatments once growth accelerates.

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February Gardening Advice for Trees UK Round-Up

This February gardening advice for trees UK focuses on the practical jobs that make the biggest difference before spring growth begins. While winter conditions may linger, rising soil temperatures mean roots are becoming increasingly active beneath the surface.

Late winter planting gives trees, shrubs, and hedging time to establish strong root systems before spring growth accelerates, supporting healthier flowering and more resilient growth later in the year. It is also one of the final opportunities to plant bare-root stock and add long-term structure or screening.

Alongside planting, soil improvement, mulching, and essential maintenance tasks help create stable conditions so your garden is ready to respond as spring growth gets underway.

Looking to plant trees this February? Explore Bowhayes Trees’ range of bare-root and container-grown trees, grown for UK conditions and ready for late winter planting.

Bare Root Trees

Ornamental Trees

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About the Author

This February gardening guide was written by the Bowhayes Trees team. With over 30 years of experience growing trees and managing a working cider orchard in Devon, Bowhayes Trees specialises in ornamental trees, hedging, and bare-root planting for UK conditions. The team regularly advises gardeners and landowners on planting, care, and long-term tree performance.

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FAQs

What trees can I plant in February in the UK?

February is ideal for planting bare-root and container-grown trees while soil conditions remain cool and moist. Species such as Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), Crab Apple (Malus ‘Evereste’), Flowering Cherry (Prunus serrulata), Magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana), Hazel (Corylus avellana), and Beech (Fagus sylvatica) all benefit from late winter planting before spring growth begins.

Is February too late to plant bare-root trees and hedging?

No. February is often one of the final strong months for bare-root planting, provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Planting now allows roots to establish before buds break in early spring.

Can I prune trees and shrubs in February?

Many deciduous trees and summer-flowering shrubs can still be pruned in February while dormant. Avoid pruning stone fruit trees, including cherries and plums, as these are best pruned in summer to reduce disease risk.

Should I water newly planted trees in winter?

Yes, during dry spells. Newly planted trees and evergreen shrubs may need watering on frost-free days, particularly in free-draining or sheltered locations.

How can I improve the soil in February?

Applying compost, leaf mould, or well-rotted manure as a surface mulch helps improve soil structure and nutrient availability without disturbing roots. Winter weather naturally works organic matter into the soil.

Is February a good time to put up bird boxes?

Yes. Late winter is ideal for installing and cleaning bird boxes before nesting season begins, which usually starts in March. Providing food now also supports birds when natural sources are limited.

Why buy trees from a specialist nursery rather than a garden centre?

Specialist nurseries like Bowhayes Trees grow trees in conditions suited to the UK climate, offering stronger root systems, better establishment rates, and expert advice based on decades of experience.