Pest focus: mice

The garden is quiet in January and February, but there are plenty of tasks to get on with. Some jobs are needed at this time of year while others, if carried out now, will help you for the gardening y

Gently brush accumulating snow from your greenhouse roof with a broom to prevent a heavy load of snow and ice damaging glass as it builds up to an excessive weight. Only do this when there is no one i

Make sure enough natural food is available for birds during winter by growing berrying trees and shrubs, and leaving seedheads standing. Bird feeders and tables can spread disease, giving some birds a

Hardy herbs such as chives and thyme can be sown in a heated propagator now, but delay starting tender ones, like basil. Dig up and force small herb plants, moving them into a well lit, gently heated

There’s not much happening outdoors at the moment, but if you follow the prepping advice of these RHS stars, you’re guaranteed a fabulous display later in the year – and you’ll save money too

Lucy ponders some of the potentially exciting jobs for the fortnight ahead