3 Easy Tasks to Prepare Your Garden for Spring!

GARDENING in February may not sound that appealing.

But according to experts, it’s actually one of the most important months for prepping your outdoor space for spring.

Experts say you can’t leave gardening jobs until the springCredit: Getty Images/500px Plus Pro for the three jobs to spruce up your garden furniture now

While it’s tempting to leave gardening jobs until warmer weather arrives, now is the perfect opportunity to get ahead.

Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse , said: “It’s the perfect time to give your garden furniture a thorough clean, before the weather truly warms up and you start using it daily.”

Here she shares the top three garden furniture jobs to get done in Feb.

DEEP CLEAN

A deep clean with soapy water or specialist cleaner takes just an hour or two but will prevent mould, mildew, and dirt build-up.

Magdalena explains that cleaning wooden furniture requires care.

She said: “For wooden garden furniture, start with a simple brush-down to remove any loose dirt or debris.

“If you’re working with teak, use just water and a soft brush for general cleaning, and invest in a proper teak cleaner once or twice a year to tackle built-up grime.

“Avoid using a power washer, as it can damage the wood’s surface. If you’ve got Polywood, it’s wonderfully low-maintenance, and just warm soapy water will do the trick, then rinse and leave to dry naturally.

“Metal furniture benefits from a wipe down with a damp cloth and rust treatment for any problem spots.

“Rattan and plastic can be washed with a mild detergent and a hose; just avoid pressure washers, as they can weaken the material over time.”

She adds: “You should always test cleaning products on an inconspicuous area first, or check with the manufacturer if you’re unsure.

“Avoid silicone-based furniture polish, as it can create a build-up that affects the finish. Instead, stick to mild soapy water and a soft cloth for gentle yet effective cleaning.”

FIX IT UP

Magdalena says now is the ideal time to check for loose screws, rust, or weather damage on metal and rattan furniture.

Magdalena says now is the ideal time to get working

The expert says: “A quick maintenance check, taking no more than 30 minutes, can prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs later in the season.

“To keep your garden furniture looking its best, regular maintenance is key. Always check fittings and re-tighten when necessary to prevent wear and tear over time.”

She added: “Tighten any loose screws and bolts to keep your furniture sturdy. For metal pieces, inspect for rust and treat it with a rust remover before applying a protective sealant.

“Rattan furniture can sometimes unravel, so use a strong adhesive to reattach any loose strands. Dealing with these small issues early means your furniture will be safe and comfortable when the warm weather arrives.”

Magdalena also suggests applying a sealant to ensure durability.

She says: “For wooden furniture, consider applying a weatherproof sealant to preserve its durability, while metal items may benefit from a protective coating to prevent corrosion.”

COVER UP

The furniture pro says investing in good-quality covers or storage solutions in early spring can save you time and money in the long run.

It only takes a few minutes to cover furniture when not in use, protecting it from rain and extending its lifespan.

She says: “Just like with heat, prolonged exposure to moisture can take its toll on wooden garden furniture. Rain can seep into the grain and cause swelling, warping or even rot over time if not properly treated.

“To help your wooden pieces withstand rainy weather, apply a PU coating to acacia wood at least once a year. This helps repel water and keep the surface looking its best. Regularly check for signs of mildew or discolouration, and sand back any rough patches before re-finishing.”

Meanwhile, Magdalena suggests storing furniture away if you can.

She added: “In the event of heavy rainfall or even mild flooding, your best defence is prevention. If possible, store outdoor furniture in a dry, sheltered place such as a shed or garage.

“If that’s not an option, invest in high-quality covers designed for outdoor use. Choose breathable, waterproof covers that fit snugly but allow airflow to prevent condensation. If you have the space, storing cushions indoors or in a weatherproof storage box will keep them fresh and mould-free.”