Though January is usually one of our coldest months, there is a lot to do in the garden. It’s time to buy and plant bare-root roses, berries and fruit trees. Pruning of deciduous fruit trees and vines should also be done.

There are a variety of flowers and vegetables that thrive in cool weather. Keep in mind that plants started from seed might take longer to germinate than they would in warmer weather.

If there is rain, wait four to seven days before planting in the ground. The soil should be moist but never soggy. When you must wait to plant because of wet weather, store bare-root plants in a cool location and keep the root ball moist.

Keep an ear open for frost warnings. Tender plants in containers should be moved to the safety of a garage or under the eaves of a house or under a large tree. To protect plants in the ground, you must create a tent over the plants. Simply laying materials such as sheets on the plants will not provide adequate frost protection. Always remove protective coverings in the morning.