January Lawn & Landscape Tips for The Woodlands

The Lawn Ranger team would like to wish you a very happy, healthy, and successful 2026. As we begin a new year, we also want to extend a sincere thank you to our loyal customers throughout The Woodlands who trust us year after year to care for, maintain, and enhance their outdoor spaces.

January may feel like a quiet month in the landscape, but it’s actually one of the most important times to set your lawn and garden up for success in the months ahead. Cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall create ideal conditions for planting, transplanting, pruning, and preventative care.

Here’s what you should be focusing on this January in The Woodlands.

Seasonal Color Plants & Containers

Cooler weather and winter rainfall typically reduce the need for frequent watering this time of year. However, it’s still important to monitor moisture levels - especially in flower beds with seasonal color plants, as these areas tend to dry out faster than turf.

• Water only as needed to keep soil consistently moist, not soggy

• Turfgrass generally requires minimal irrigation this month

• Container plants still need regular attention - ensure water reaches the bottom of the root ball

Pest activity is usually low in January, but during mild weather, aphids can appear. Keep an eye on tender plants and address issues early if needed.

Turf Care & Bare Areas

Bare patches of soil can become a problem during winter rains, leading to erosion and washouts.

A simple solution:

• Loosen the soil

• Spread ryegrass seed over exposed areas

Ryegrass establishes quickly, helping stabilize the soil while improving the overall appearance of your lawn during the winter months.

Perennials

January is an excellent time to evaluate and adjust your perennial beds.

• Dormant perennials can be safely moved to new locations

• Cut back and remove old, dead growth to improve appearance and plant health

Removing “dead stuff” not only cleans up the landscape but also encourages stronger growth when spring arrives.

Roses

Late December through early February is the ideal window for planting or transplanting roses in The Woodlands.

If relocating an existing rose bush:

• Prune it back appropriately

• Dig up as much of the root system as possible

• Replant immediately and keep roots from drying out

Proper handling now leads to healthier plants and better blooms later in the season.

Shrubs

Shrubs are fully dormant in January, making this one of the best months for transplanting.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid planting immediately after heavy rain when soil is too compacted

• Don’t transplant just before a hard freeze, especially when temperatures may dip into the teens

January is also an excellent time to apply horticultural oil sprays to shrubs prone to scale insects. Common plants that benefit include camellias, hollies, magnolias, privets, euonymus, and cleyera.

Trees

If you’re considering adding trees to your landscape, January is one of the best months to do it.

• Deciduous trees are leafless and dormant

• Dormancy reduces transplant shock and helps roots establish more easily

Planting now gives trees a strong foundation before spring growth begins.

Start the Year Strong with Lawn Ranger

While your lawn may appear quiet this time of year, the work done in January plays a critical role in how your landscape performs the rest of the year. From planting and pruning to erosion control and pest prevention, now is the time to plan ahead.

If you’d like professional guidance or hands-on help caring for your lawn and landscape in The Woodlands, the Lawn Ranger team is always here to help you start the year strong.

Here’s to a beautiful outdoor season ahead!

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