UK gardeners advised to delay planting in February

A TikTok gardening expert cautioned that a very wet, cold winter has made early February planting more difficult and suggested waiting until late February or early March; the RSPB also highlighted National Nest Box Week and encouraged providing nest boxes for garden birds.

Gardeners looking ahead to spring blooms are being asked to be cautious about planting this month. A TikTok gardener known as @gardening.with.ish said the UK has had a very wet and cold winter, making early February planting more difficult. Much of the country has seen heavy rainfall recently, and some places were reported to have had 41 consecutive days of rain. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) noted that it is National Nest Box Week and highlighted nest boxes as a way to support garden birds. What is known: - A gardening expert on TikTok advised delaying planting until late February or early March because of a wet, cold winter and recent heavy rain. - Reports indicate parts of the UK have experienced prolonged rainfall, including reports of 41 consecutive days in some areas. - The RSPB has called attention to National Nest Box Week and promoted nest boxes as a simple way to help garden birds. - The article notes nest boxes are typically priced around £10 to £20 and that the RSPB recommends clearing boxes in September if they are not occupied while leaving existing boxes now to avoid disturbing birds. Summary: A wet, cold winter and extended rainfall have led experts to caution against planting bulbs too early in February because establishment could be more difficult. The gardening expert suggested waiting until late February or early March before planting, and the RSPB's focus on nest boxes draws attention to measures aimed at supporting garden bird populations.