Do you live in the northern hemisphere, where January is a month of mild to severe winter? If so, there are many garden activities you can be doing this month. By working now, you can prepare for the spring and summer seaons.  This is particularly true where I live, as we have a long growing season and spring arrives fairly early.  However, it also is important for the gardener who lives in an area with a longer winter and a shorter growing season.  

Here are just five of the many things that the gardener can do in January:

1) In many places, this is a good month to plant both fruit trees and rose bushes. Since they are dormant at this time of year, you can usually transplant them with a minimum of shock to the plant's root and leaf systems.

2) Likewise, January is a good time to prune deciduous shade trees, fruit trees, and and shrubs. Don't prune plants that that flower in the spring, however, as you will be cutting off the new growth. Check with your local garden store to see if you need to treat any new or existing plants with winter solutions.

3) Now's a good time to plan your spring and summer garden and to order seeds. Take into account your area's growing season and hardiness zone, as well as which plants flourish in your area. Pay special attention to the materials you will need for early season crops -- such as lettuce. Also, accumulate the supplies you will need if you plan to start seeds indoors.

4) Is your garden equipment ready for the spring? Why not clean items now and take any items -- such as a lawn mower -- in for service before the spring rush.

5) Inspect beds for weeds and pests. Sometimes, these are easier to deal with in the colder months, rather than in summer.

Happy Gardening!