This Month in Your Garden - February

"February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March." - Dr. J. R. Stockton

That is perhaps a little unfair on February, with its snowdrops (Galanthus) and daffodils joining primula and primrose in early displays to say spring is not too far away. For many of us, the early month shows some heavy bands of rain, but the dry spells also look as if we will get the usual February mixed bag of extremes from mild to freezing. 

The Lawncare Guide - February

 Go green

Periodically, we delve a little deeper into garden projects rather than just hints and tips. Laying a new lawn is best done in October/November but turfing can be done up to February so long as the ground is not frozen or too wet, assuming you have prepared the area. Buy your turf from a reputable supplier and get the best quality – you will be living with the new lawn in the years to come. 

Lawn Care: Questions & Answers

Q. What advice can you give me on laying a new lawn. I am worried about getting it right using turf and then the best way to look after the lawn. 

The Vegetable Plot - February

 Plan the plot

Crop rotation is as important in the garden as it is in agriculture. Without it, you are susceptible to the increase in soil-living pests and diseases which harm your vegetables. Cropping with the same vegetable in the same area will also leave the soil’s nutrients unbalanced. 

The Big Glut Recipe - February

Smoky bacon and leek risotto

An easy dish from Delicious Magazine serves four. Hands-on time 20 minutes, oven time 20 minutes. 

Ingredients

• Rapeseed oil for frying
• Large handful fresh sage leaves
• 4 smoked streaky bacon rashers, chopped
• 1 large leek, finely sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 250g arborio risotto rice
• 150ml dry white wine
• 750ml hot vegetable stock
• 80g soft goat’s cheese