January may seem like a quiet time in the garden, but it’s important to check for any signs of damage or infection to ensure the health of your plants.
With many plants in a dormant state, it’s easy to overlook early signs of trouble, as pointed out by Jamie Shipley, gardening expert and Managing Director of Hedges Direct.
Addressing issues now as soon as they are spotted can prevent them from worsening and taking hold as the year progresses.
Taking the time for a quick check-up on your garden this month will ensure a healthier start to spring.
1. Bracket Fungi
Though bracket fungi typically make an appearance during the summer, their characteristic structures can still be spotted in January.
These fungi often appear as hard, shelf-like growths around the base or main branches of trees, particularly on species like beech, ash, and stone fruit trees such as cherry and plum.
If you notice these unusual growths, it’s advisable to consult a tree surgeon to assess the situation.
Early detection is crucial, as bracket fungi can weaken branches, leading to breakages or even causing the entire tree to fall.
2. Box Blight
Box blight is a persistent issue for gardeners, especially during wetter months when spores are easily spread by the wind. In January, it’s essential to stay on top of garden hygiene to help prevent the spread of this disease.
Keep an eye out for brown, withered leaves and bare patches on your box hedges. Often, white spores can be found on the underside of leaves or on fallen debris.
These spores can linger in the soil for up to six years, so proper disposal of affected leaves is key. Also, be sure to clean any pruning tools thoroughly after each use to prevent further contamination.
3. Coral Spot
Coral spot affects the branches of deciduous trees, shrubs, and hedges, making its presence more noticeable during winter when the foliage has fallen.
The disease is identified by the appearance of pink pustules on affected branches. Much like box blight, pruning infected branches during dry weather is essential to prevent the spread of spores.
Regular inspection and prompt action can help reduce the impact of this disease on your plants.
4. Cankers
Cankers are another concern for gardeners with deciduous trees, especially during the winter months. These sunken patches of dead bark, often with small holes, can be indicative of an infection.
Trees in the Prunus family, including plum, cherry, apricot, and peach, are particularly susceptible to cankers. While it’s tempting to prune affected branches during the winter, it’s best to wait until late spring or early summer when the tree is more resistant.
Pruning in dry conditions and removing any infected material will help prevent the disease from spreading.