What to Plant in February
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February, often seen as the prelude to spring, is an exciting time for gardeners. As the cold weather begins to wane, it's the perfect time to start sowing seeds and planning for the upcoming growing season.
In this guide, we'll explore the best plants and seeds to start in February, keeping in mind factors like the last frost date and the specific needs of each plant variety.
As we delve into the specifics of what to plant in February, remember that this month is as much about preparation and planning as it is about actual planting.
It's about setting the stage for a flourishing garden that will come to life in the months to follow.
Join us in this journey through February gardening, where each seed sown and each garden bed prepared is a step closer to the lush, vibrant garden that emerges in spring and summer.
To get ahead of the game, check out my guides:
Vegetables and Herbs to Plant in February
February offers a range of possibilities for starting vegetables and herbs, whether indoors or in the garden, depending on your climate.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Tomato Seeds:
Tomato plants require a warm start. Sow seeds in small pots or seed trays using a seed-starting mix.
Place them on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights to ensure they receive adequate warmth and light.
Tomato seeds generally take 6-8 weeks before they are ready to be transplanted outdoors, making February an ideal time to start.
To learn more about growing tomatoes, check out my guide Are Coffee Grounds Good for Tomato Plants?
Here are my favorite tomato seeds that I recommend:
Peppers:
Like tomatoes, peppers need a warm, sunny start.
They can take a bit longer to germinate, so starting them in February gives them a head start.
Use a heat mat if necessary to maintain a consistent soil temperature.
Here is the heat mat I recommend.
Check out my growing guide: Growing Jalapeños in Pots: A Spicy Addition to Your Garden.
Here are the cayenne pepper seeds I recommend:
Herbs:
Herbs such as basil, parsley, and cilantro can be started indoors in February.
They don't require as much warmth as tomatoes or peppers but do need plenty of light.
These herbs will be ready to transplant or use from the pot within a few weeks.
Here are the basil, parsley and cilantro seeds I recommend:
Cold Weather Crops
For gardeners in milder climates, some vegetables can be sown directly into the garden in February.
These include:
Root Vegetables:
Carrots, beets, and radishes can be sown directly into well-prepared, loose, and well-drained soil.
These crops can handle a bit of frost and will benefit from the cooler temperatures of early spring.
Here are the carrot, beet and radish seeds I recommend growing:
Leafy Greens:
Spinach, kale, and lettuce are excellent choices for early sowing.
They can tolerate cold weather and even a light frost.
Sow these seeds in a sunny spot in well-drained soil.
Cover with a light layer of soil or compost and water gently.
Here are the spinach, kale and lettuce seeds I recommend growing:
Peas:
Peas thrive in cooler weather and can be one of the first crops sown directly into the ground.
They require a structure to climb as they grow, so prepare trellises or supports at the time of planting.
Here is my favorite trellis for growing peas.
Check out my guide: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Peas in Pots.
Here are my favorite sugar snap peas to grow:
Tips for Success
Seed Germination:
Make sure to keep the soil moist but not wet to encourage germination.
Use a spray bottle to gently water the soil without disturbing the seeds.
Temperature Control:
For seeds started indoors, maintain a consistent temperature.
Most vegetables and herbs prefer a range between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Transplanting:
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves and the outdoor temperatures are consistently above freezing, they can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions (a process known as hardening off) before transplanting.
Planting in February requires a balance of patience and preparation. By starting seeds indoors or choosing the right crops for outdoor sowing, gardeners can make the most of this early start to the gardening season.
Learn more about starting a vegetable garden with my guide: What is a Kitchen Garden?
Flowers to Plant in February
February may still be cold, but it's the perfect time to start planning and planting for a colorful garden.
Here are some flower varieties that can be started this month, both indoors and, in some climates, directly in the garden.
Starting Flowers Indoors
Sweet Peas:
Known for their beautiful, fragrant blooms, sweet peas are a fantastic choice to start in February.
Sow them in deep pots to accommodate their long roots and keep them in a bright, cool spot.
Sweet peas will need support as they grow, so prepare to add trellises or stakes when transplanting them outdoors.
Here is the trellis I recommend.
To learn more about growing sweet peas, check out my guides Creative Support Ideas for Thriving Sweet Peas and Sweet Peas: When to Plant Seeds.
Here are the sweet pea seeds I recommend:
Dusty Miller:
This plant is valued for its striking, silvery foliage, which provides a beautiful contrast in flower beds or containers.
Start Dusty Miller indoors in seed trays or pots.
They prefer bright light and well-drained soil. Once they've grown sufficiently, you can transplant them outside after the risk of frost has passed.
Here are the Dusty Miller seeds I recommend:
Hardy Annuals for Direct Sowing
In milder climates, or as the month progresses and the weather begins to warm, some hardy annuals can be sown directly into the garden:
Pansies:
Pansies can often withstand cold temperatures, making them an excellent choice for early sowing.
They can bring a splash of color to your garden even in cooler weather.
Here are the pansy seeds I recommend:
Calendula:
Also known as pot marigold, calendula is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of conditions, including cooler weather.
Sowing calendula seeds in February can result in early blooms and a long flowering period.
Learn more about growing calendula with my guide The Easiest Way to Grow Calendula from Seed.
Here are the calendula seeds I recommend:
Nasturtiums:
While they're often planted later in the spring, in milder climates, you can start nasturtiums in February.
They are fast growers and can add vibrant colors and edible flowers to your garden.
Here are the nasturtium seeds I recommend:
Tips for Growing Flowers from Seeds
Soil Preparation:
Use a seed-starting mix for indoor sowing, ensuring it's moist but well-drained.
Lighting:
Most flowers require plenty of light to grow strong and healthy.
A sunny windowsill or artificial grow lights can provide the necessary light exposure.
Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases and poor seedling growth.
For more watering tips, check out my guide How Often to Water Seedlings.
Transplanting:
Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves and the weather warms, acclimatize them to outdoor conditions gradually before transplanting.
Starting flowers in February can be a rewarding endeavor, leading to a beautiful and vibrant garden in the spring and summer months. With the right care and attention, these early starts can flourish and bring joy to your outdoor space.
To get ahead of the game, check out my guides What to Plant in March and What to Plant in April.
Planting Tips for February Gardening
Gardening in February presents unique challenges and opportunities.
Whether you're starting seeds indoors or preparing your garden beds for early sowings, these tips will help ensure successful planting.
Soil Preparation
Testing and Amending:
Before planting, test your soil's pH and nutrient levels.
Here is the soil pH test kit I use.
Amend the soil as needed with compost or other organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
Avoiding Wet Soil:
In many regions, February can still be quite wet.
Planting in waterlogged soil can harm seeds and seedlings.
Wait until the soil is not too damp before planting. Raised beds can help improve drainage in particularly soggy areas.
Watering
Consistent Moisture for Seeds:
Seeds and seedlings require consistent moisture to germinate and grow.
Use a watering can with a fine rose or a spray bottle for gentle watering that doesn’t disturb the soil or seeds.
Avoid Overwatering:
Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Ensure that your pots and seed trays have proper drainage holes.
Temperature Control
Indoor Warmth for Seedlings:
Most seeds need a warm environment to germinate.
Indoors, keep seed trays in a warm room or use a heat mat specifically designed for seed starting.
Cold Protection:
For early outdoor plantings, be prepared to protect young plants from unexpected late frosts.
Use cloches, row covers, or fleece to shield them.
Light Requirements
Sunlight for Indoor Seedlings:
Seedlings need plenty of light to grow strong.
Place them near a sunny window or use grow lights to provide sufficient light, especially in regions where February is still quite dark.
Protecting from Frost
Monitoring Weather Forecasts:
Keep an eye on local weather forecasts for frost warnings.
Being prepared to cover your plants or bring them indoors can save them from sudden cold snaps.
Using Cloches and Covers:
Temporary covers like cloches, plastic tunnels, or frost cloths can protect young plants and seeds from frost.
Hardening Off
Gradual Acclimatization:
Before transplanting indoor-started seedlings outdoors, they need to be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions.
This process, known as hardening off, involves exposing plants to outside conditions for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their time outdoors over a week or two.
Advanced Tip: Rotating Crops
If you're planting in a vegetable garden, consider practicing crop rotation. Rotating your crops each year can help prevent soil-borne diseases and improve soil health.
Regional Planting Guides for February
February's planting activities can vary greatly depending on your geographical location.
Here’s a closer look at what to plant in February across different regions.
What to Plant in February in California and Texas
Mediterranean and Warmer Climates:
In these regions, February is an ideal time to start a variety of vegetables, flowers, and herbs both indoors and outdoors.
Vegetables:
It's possible to start tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers indoors.
Outdoors, gardeners can begin with root vegetables like carrots and beets, as well as leafy greens.
Flowers:
Consider starting marigolds, zinnias, and sunflowers.
These can be started indoors and transplanted outside when the weather warms up.
What to Plant in February in Zone 9
Extended Growing Season:
Zone 9 has a long growing season with a mild winter.
February is a great time to start summer vegetables and flowers.
Outdoor Planting: You can directly sow seeds of peas, spinach, and lettuce.
This is also a good time to start preparing beds for spring planting of warm-season crops.
February Planting in Cooler Climates (Zone 7, Ireland, NZ)
Starting Indoors:
In these cooler climates, February is primarily a time for indoor seed starting.
Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and onions can be started indoors.
Planning for Spring:
Prepare your garden beds as the weather allows, adding compost or other organic material to enrich the soil.
What to Plant in February in Specific Areas
February Plant of the Month:
Look for regional suggestions for the plant of the month, which can provide insight into what thrives during this time.
What to Plant in February and March:
As February transitions to March, consider starting plants indoors that have a longer growing period before transplanting, such as eggplants and bell peppers.
Tips for Regional Planting
Microclimates:
Be aware of microclimates in your area. Urban areas may be warmer, allowing for earlier planting.
Local Frost Dates:
Pay close attention to local frost dates and be prepared to protect plants if a late frost is expected.
Soil Conditions:
Different regions have different soil types. Test your soil and amend it as necessary to suit the types of plants you want to grow.
FAQ Section
Can I start planting outdoors in February?
This depends largely on your location. In milder climates, you can begin sowing hardy vegetables and flowers directly in the garden.
In colder areas, it's best to start seeds indoors and wait until the risk of frost has passed before transplanting outdoors.
What are the best vegetables to start indoors in February?
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and various herbs are excellent choices to start indoors in February.
They require a longer growing period and benefit from the early start.
How do I protect my early plantings from unexpected frost?
Use cloches, row covers, or frost cloths to protect young plants from frost.
Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be ready to cover your plants if a sudden drop in temperature is expected.
Here is the frost cloth I recommend using.
When should I transplant my seedlings outdoors?
Transplant your seedlings after the last expected frost date in your area.
Gradually acclimatize them to outdoor conditions over a week or two before planting them in the garden.
What flowers can I start in February?
Indoors, you can start sweet peas, Dusty Miller, pansies, and marigolds.
In milder climates, some hardy annuals like calendula and nasturtiums can be sown directly into the garden.
How do I prepare my soil for planting in February?
Ensure the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Amend it with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and structure.
In cold climates, wait until the soil is workable and not frozen.
Is February too early to start warm-weather crops?
It's not too early to start warm-weather crops indoors in February.
This gives plants like tomatoes and peppers enough time to mature before transplanting them outside after the danger of frost has passed.
What should I plant in February in cooler climates like Zone 7 or Ireland?
In cooler climates, focus on starting seeds indoors.
Hardy vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and onions are good options. Also, begin preparing your garden beds as the weather allows.
Can I plant perennials in February?
In milder climates, some hardy perennials can be planted in February.
However, in colder regions, it's best to wait until the ground thaws and the risk of frost has diminished.
How do I know when to start sowing seeds outdoors in my region?
Research the average last frost date for your area and monitor local weather forecasts.
Many gardeners use this date as a guide for when to start sowing seeds outdoors.
Conclusion
February is a month full of potential for gardeners. Whether you're starting seeds indoors or preparing your garden for early planting, it's a time to anticipate the vibrant growth of spring. With the right preparation and choice of plants, your February gardening efforts will lay the foundation for a fruitful growing season.
For more spring garden advice, check out my guides: