January may be the heart of winter, but for Canadian gardeners, it’s a season brimming with potential. The days are getting longer, and every moment spent planning, learning, or dreaming brings us closer to the thrill of spring. Though the ground may still be frozen, the gardener's heart is already warming to the promise of new beginnings.

It is all about keeping the spirit of gardening alive. Even when the weather keeps you indoors, there’s much to do to keep your gardening energy alive and thriving. January is the perfect time to prepare for the season ahead and connect with the joy of nurturing life in our outdoor space.

Discover a plant to inspire your year! Of course, there are endless varieties of beautiful plants but this year I have chosen the Dahlia as my plant inspiration for the year. Let’s shine a spotlight on it, a perennial favourite among Canadian gardeners and one of the stars of summer gardens. Whenever I look at a dahlia I am in awe! With their mesmerizing blooms in countless shapes, sizes, and colours, dahlias are a true testament to nature's artistry. All I can see is perfection! Native to Mexico, these tuberous perennials thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil. They are tender perennials, meaning they’ll need to be lifted and stored in colder zones but can overwinter in milder areas (Zones 8+).  These are wonderful plants that you will enjoy in late summer and well into late fall. That's the part I like the most about dahlias: they bloom for you when a lot of other plants already have had their show and are on the way out. They extend your garden's blooming time and will gift you with beautiful cut flowers and a wonderful display of breathtaking flowers.

Now is the time to also do some research. Use this month to explore the many varieties from the dramatic Dinnerplate Dahlia to the cheerful Pompon Dahlia. Each is special in its own glory. Sketch out where you'd like to plant them and imagine the vibrant display they'll bring to your garden. While dreaming, be careful what you wish for, you most likely will get it :) Check out the Botanus 2025 catalogue for the amazing Dahlias we have available. Old classics like Marble Ball, Wizard of Oz, Tsuki Yori and Cafe Au Lait to new varieties like Maarn or Dahlegria Tricolore only to name a few.  Dive in and start dreaming and planning and feeling their presence in your garden.

If you saved your Dahlia tubers in the fall, check on them now. Ensure they’re stored in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. Remove any that show signs of rot to protect the rest. It is important to keep your storage container clean and disease-free so your tubers can rest and recover and get a fresh and healthy start into their new growing season.

But what else can you do in January?

• Plan Your Summer Garden:
  Browse through the catalogue or our online store for summer bulbs, perennials, and roses. Consider combinations that will bring both beauty and structure to your garden. Plan and dream and plan and dream. I promise it's bliss!
• Learn and Grow:
  Take time to research new gardening techniques, read books, or watch videos on flower arrangement or rose care. We have almost 200 videos online for you to watch and enjoy. There is lots to learn. Even some floral tips with Elke to keep your creative juices flowing.
• Tool Tune-Up:
  We talked about cleaning and treating your tools before you store them away for the winter, but if you didn't get around to doing it, now is the time to get them out and look at them. Sharpen your pruners, clean your tools, and check your gardening accessories. A little maintenance now will make spring planting a breeze.

Whatever you do, remember: gardening is about more than just plants -it’s about hope, creativity, and connection to nature. Every seed you plant, every plan you sketch, and every dream you nurture in January is a step toward the joy of the growing season.

When spring finally arrives, you’ll be ready to turn your winter dreams into a flourishing garden oasis. Until then, enjoy the process, embrace the beauty of discovery, and keep your gardening spirit alive.