January Plans For Your Spring Garden

January is a great time to evaluate your garden. Without the lush growth of spring and summer, the bare landscape reveals the true structure of your outdoor spaces. Walk around and notice how the elements work together. Are there areas that feel empty or imbalanced? Perhaps the garden could benefit from additional features, like a new seating area or a grand decorative item?

Consider how you move through the space and where your eye naturally rests – these observations can help guide your changes.

Incorporate focal points

Every garden benefits from standout features that catch the eye. A striking antique olive jar or stunning handmade terracotta planter can serve as a natural focal point, drawing attention and enhancing the overall design. Handcrafted jars, rich in character, add a timeless charm to any garden. Position them strategically – perhaps at the centre of a flowerbed, beside a patio, or as a marker for a garden path. 

Such items bring structure to your space and help guide the viewer’s gaze, creating a sense of purpose and flow. Beyond their beauty, these jars are versatile, doubling as planters for vibrant flowers or trailing plants.

Plan for seasonal planting

A well-planned garden bursts with life throughout the year. Use January to research plants that thrive in your garden’s conditions, considering soil type, light exposure, and climate. Think ahead to spring and beyond—what colours, textures, and heights will bring your space to life? Group plants thoughtfully to create layers and depth. 

Low-growing flowers, lush greenery, and tall ornamental grasses or trees can work together to form a dynamic scene. Pairing fragrant lavender with cascading plants in antique olive jars creates an aromatic and visually stunning display. Start small by selecting a few key plants and build your design from there.

Prepare your garden structures

Garden paths, fences, patios, and other structural elements form the backbone of your outdoor space. If they’re looking a little tired, now is the time to refresh or reimagine them. Repair any cracks in pathways, repaint fences, or pressure-wash patios for a clean slate. You might also consider expanding or altering these structures. 

A wider patio can make entertaining easier, while painted fences in darker shades can make your garden appear larger and more cohesive. Use structures creatively – a pergola, for instance, can frame a dining area or provide support for climbing plants, adding height and interest.

Create a garden plan

Designing a garden is much like arranging a room: it’s all about balance, flow, and personality. To visualise your ideas, create a scaled drawing or use a photo editing app to map out potential changes. Highlight areas where you’d like to add plants, paths, or decorative elements. 

Think about how sunlight moves through your garden and plan accordingly – sun-loving plants need bright spots, while shaded corners can become havens for ferns or hostas. Incorporating focal points like antique olive jars into this plan ensures they’re showcased effectively. A clear plan allows you to experiment with ideas and refine your design before committing.

January planning for your spring garden

January is a month of possibilities for gardeners. By assessing your space, incorporating stunning focal points, and making thoughtful plans, you can create a garden that’s both beautiful and functional. 

Explore our selection of antique olive jars and other timeless pieces to find the perfect additions to your garden:

save up to 30% on antique oil jars and stoneware