Fountain Timber Garden Calendar

 January

Help wildlife and dig over dormant beds

In the quiet of winter, your garden might look bare, but there’s plenty to get on with! This is a great time to support local wildlife. Clean out bird feeders and top up with fresh feed to help birds and other animals survive the colder months. If you’ve got hedgehog houses or log piles, make sure they’re undisturbed and still offering shelter.

This is also a great month to dig over empty vegetable plots. The soil is easier to work with after frost, and digging now helps reduce weeds and aerate the ground. Add mulch if you missed it in autumn – our barks and mulches range includes pine chips and woodland mulch to protect your beds through the colder months.

 February

Plan structural improvements before spring arrives

With plants still dormant, this is the perfect window to build or repair fencing. Less foliage means easier access, and you’ll be ready for new growth in spring. Use pressure-treated posts and panels to ensure your fence will last.

It’s also a good opportunity to lay the groundwork for outdoor entertaining. Start building your deck now so it’s ready for warmer weather. Why not browse our range of decking and sub-frame components for a sturdy, professional finish?

 march

Start sowing, planting, and planning

As spring approaches, it’s time to get your garden in order. Organise your tools and outdoor storage so everything’s ready for a busy growing season. Consider adding planters and raised beds to keep your layout tidy and efficient.

Early veg like potatoes and onions can be planted now; or start a herb garden in containers or raised beds – fresh parsley, thyme and mint will all thrive in the build up to spring. Replace old compost and refresh pots with new growing media and slow-release fertiliser.

 april

Create shade and start composting

Spring signals longer days and the arrival of new shoots. Why not add structure and permanence to your garden by installing a gazebo or garden structure? These sturdy timber outdoor features provide plenty of welcome shade and protection from surprise spring showers, while giving your garden shape and character.

Now is also a good time to begin a compost heap if you haven’t already. A mix of green waste and brown material will break down into rich compost for next year’s beds. It’s a sustainable way to manage food waste and build better soil.

 may

Protect tender plants and care for garden birds

The danger of frost hasn’t completely passed, so be prepared to protect tender seedlings with fleece if temperatures drop unexpectedly. May is also a chance to plant out your more delicate vegetables – think courgettes, tomatoes and beans.

Meanwhile, give your bird feeders a deep clean and refill them to keep garden birds healthy. If you’re updating your setup, explore our range of bird tables and feeders designed for all garden sizes.

 june

Harvest crops and start thinking ahead

Early crops like onions and strawberries may be ready to pick. Keep an eye out for signs they’re ripe – yellowing leaves, for example, are a classic sign onions are ready to lift.

While you’re enjoying long summer evenings, it’s also a good time to plan for the shorter days to come. Could you add lighting or heating to your deck or patio?Millboard composite decking is a durable, low-maintenance surface that pairs well with outdoor entertaining areas.

 july

Maintain timber and sow for autumn

With consistently dry weather, this is the best month to treat outdoor timber structures. Use high-quality preservers and woodcare to keep sheds, fences and decking protected and looking fresh.

Elsewhere, to extend your harvest season, sow crops like autumn peas and beans now. They’ll be ready just as summer produce starts to tail off.

 august

Care for containers and get creative with sleepers

Container plants can suffer in the heat, so make sure they’re watered deeply and often. Move them out of full sun during peak hours if possible, and deadhead flowers to encourage more growth.

This is also an ideal time to work with timber sleepers. From raised beds to simple benches, sleepers are a robust, stylish choice for all kinds of garden projects.

 september

Plant for winter and rework your layout

Extend your veg supply by planting autumn onions, garlic and hardy greens like spinach and lamb’s lettuce. These will keep your garden productive well into winter.

If you're planning a new layout, now’s the right time to move shrubs or larger perennials. They’ll have time to settle before the first frosts hit.

 October

Prepare for winter with thoughtful updates

As the weather cools, now’s a great time to think about your pets. A wooden dog kennel gives your dog a dry, secure place to rest outdoors. Our timber kennels are treated to resist rot and built to last.

You can also install new raised beds this month, giving you a head start on next year’s growing season.

 novemBER

Preserve timber and prepare for colder weather

Use dry days to apply a final coat of wood treatment before winter sets in. It’s a small job that goes a long way to keeping your sheds, fences and decking protected.

Dig over any cleared vegetable beds. You’ll improve soil texture and make your spring planting easier. Add bark mulch for extra protection over winter.

It’s also the right time to check your firewood supplies. A well-built log store keeps your logs dry, neatly stacked, and ready for the colder months. Explore our firewood and log store range for sturdy, weather-resistant options that fit any outdoor space.

 december

Garden indoors and harvest the last of the crops

Even in winter, you can grow herbs indoors. Set up a few pots on a sunny windowsill with rosemary, thyme, and basil. These herbs will brighten mealtimes and add a burst of green to your kitchen.

Harvest any remaining hardy vegetables like sprouts, kale, or parsnips. They’re a satisfying reward at the year’s end – and perfect for festive dining!