What to Plant in February. 2025 Seed Starting / Gardening Checklist!
What to Plant in February. Your 2025 Seed Starting and Gardening Checklist!
As winter begins to wane, the days grow longer once again,
and the promise of spring lingers on the horizon,
February is an important month for gardeners...
This is the month we get a head start on the growing season by starting seeds, planning our garden, and preparing for the bounty ahead!
Whether you are growing indoors or taking advantage of milder outdoor conditions, February offers plenty of opportunities to dig in to many beneficial gardening tasks and projects.
Seeds to Start Indoors in February
Starting seeds indoors gives your plants a head start, ensuring they are ready to thrive once the outdoor conditions are ready for growing.
What garden seeds can I start in February?
In February, focus on these vegetables and herbs…
- Tomatoes and Peppers
These warm-season crops need ample time to grow strong before being transplanted. Varieties like cherry tomatoes and sweet bell peppers are popular choices.
- Eggplants
Similar to tomatoes and peppers, eggplants benefit from early indoor starts, especially in cooler climates.
- Brassicas
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are cold-hardy and can be started indoors for an early harvest.
- Onions and Leeks
These long-season crops need an early start to mature by late summer or fall.
- Herbs
Basil, parsley, and chives are easy to grow indoors and can provide fresh flavors for your kitchen long before outdoor planting begins.
- Companion Flowers
Marigolds, nasturtiums, and calendula not only add extra beauty and color to a garden but also deter pests and attract pollinators.
Seeds to Direct Sow Outdoors
If you live in a region with mild winters or have access to protective covers, February is also ideal for direct sowing certain crops such as…
- Peas: These cold-hardy legumes thrive in cool soil and can be planted as soon as the ground is workable.
- Radishes: Fast-growing and frost-tolerant, radishes are perfect for an early start.
- Spinach and Lettuce: Many leafy greens can also handle cooler temperatures, making them excellent candidates for February planting.
WINTER GARDEN TIP: To protect outdoor seedlings, consider using row covers, cloches, or cold frames to shield them from unexpected frost or temperature drops.
February Gardening Tasks
Beyond planting, February is a great month to tackle essential garden prep tasks…
Seed Tray Prep
Take this time to wash and sterilize seed trays or pots and help prevent future diseases! (TIP: Use high-quality seed-starting mix to ensure optimal germination!)
Organize Seeds
Go through leftover seeds from previous years, check expiration dates and begin planning your planting schedule.
Prune Trees and Shrubs
Late winter is the perfect time to prune fruit trees and shrubs while they’re dormant. (Proper pruning promotes healthy growth and better fruit production.)
Garden Planning
Take this time to sketch out your garden layout. Factor in crop rotation, companion planting, and sunlight exposure. This is also an excellent opportunity and time to explore new varieties or garden designs.
Creative Gardening Ideas for February
For those looking to add an extra layer of creativity to their gardening routine, here are some ideas…
Experiment with Microgreens
Quick to grow and packed with nutrients, microgreens like arugula and mustard greens can be harvested in just a few weeks.
Explore Heirloom Seeds
February is the perfect time to browse seed catalogs and try unique heirloom varieties that can bring diversity and resilience to your garden.
Start a Compost Bin
Begin composting kitchen scraps and yard waste now to have nutrient-rich soil ready for the growing season.
Final Take-Away for the February Gardener…
February marks the starting line for gardeners everywhere.
By planting seeds indoors, sowing cool-weather crops outside, and tackling these essential gardening tasks, you are setting the stage for a super-thriving vegetable garden throughout the entire year.
Now, grab your seed packs, prep those growing trays, and let the gardening adventures begin!
