What To Plant in February

What to Plant in February: Getting a Head Start on the Growing Season

February may still feel like winter across much of the country, but for gardeners, it marks the beginning of the new growing season. While snow and freezing temperatures may linger outdoors, there is plenty you can plant in February—both indoors and, in some regions, directly in the garden. Knowing what to plant now helps maximize the growing season, leads to stronger plants, and sets the stage for a productive year. So grab your coffee, and bring your trowel, and let’s dig in to today’s topic.

Understanding Your Growing Zone

Before planting anything in February, it’s important to know your USDA hardiness zone. Gardeners in warmer southern and coastal areas can plant outdoors much earlier than those in colder northern regions. For many others, February planting happens indoors under lights or on sunny windowsills. Always check seed packets and local frost dates to ensure proper timing.

Vegetables to Start Indoors in February

Many vegetables benefit from an early indoor start, especially slow-growing or cool-season crops. Starting seeds indoors allows plants to mature before summer heat arrives.

Onions and Leeks
Onions and leeks are among the earliest crops to start indoors. They take a long time to reach harvest size and benefit greatly from early planting. Start seeds in shallow trays and keep soil evenly moist.

Brassicas
Cool-season vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts can be started indoors in February in many regions. These crops prefer cooler weather and can be transplanted outdoors once the soil is workable.

Celery and Celeriac
Celery is notorious for its slow germination and long growing season. February is an ideal time to start celery indoors so plants are ready for transplanting in spring.

Herbs
Perennial and slow-growing herbs such as parsley, thyme, oregano, and sage can be started indoors in February. These herbs benefit from early establishment and provide long-lasting harvests throughout the season.

Vegetables to Plant Outdoors in Warm Regions

In USDA zones 8–10, February offers opportunities for direct sowing and transplanting outdoors.

Leafy Greens
Spinach, lettuce, arugula, and kale can often be planted directly in the garden in warmer climates. These fast-growing greens thrive in cool temperatures and can be harvested within weeks.

Root Crops
Carrots, radishes, beets, and turnips can be sown outdoors where soil temperatures allow. These crops prefer cool weather and develop better flavor before heat sets in.

Peas
Snow peas and sugar snap peas can be planted outdoors in late February in mild climates. Peas thrive in cool soil and produce best before temperatures climb.

Flowers to Start in February

February is also an excellent time to start flowers indoors. Many annuals and perennials require a long growing season and benefit from an early start.

Annual Flowers
Petunias, pansies, snapdragons, and impatiens can be started indoors in February. These flowers provide early and continuous blooms once transplanted outdoors.

Perennial Flowers
Perennials such as lavender, echinacea, delphinium, and black-eyed Susan often need extra time to establish. Starting them indoors in February increases the likelihood of blooms in the first year.

Fruit and Berries to Plant

In warmer climates, February can be a good time to plant bare-root fruit trees and berry bushes.

Bare-Root Trees
Apple, pear, peach, and plum trees can be planted while still dormant. Cool temperatures reduce transplant shock and encourage strong root development.

Berry Bushes
Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries can often be planted in late winter in mild regions. Early planting allows roots to establish before active growth begins.

Houseplants and Indoor Crops

February is an ideal time to refresh indoor gardens. Start microgreens such as radish, broccoli, and sunflower indoors for quick harvests. These nutrient-dense greens grow rapidly and provide fresh flavor during winter months.

You can also propagate houseplants through cuttings or division. This is a budget-friendly way to expand your indoor plant collection while preparing for spring.

Tips for Successful February Planting

• Use seed-starting mix rather than garden soil to prevent disease
• Provide adequate light to avoid leggy seedlings
• Label all trays and containers clearly
• Water sparingly to prevent damping-off disease
• Harden off seedlings gradually before moving them outdoors

Planting Today for Tomorrow’s Harvest

What you plant in February lays the foundation for the entire growing season. Whether you’re sowing seeds indoors, planting outdoors in warm climates, or preparing flowers and fruit trees, February offers valuable opportunities to get ahead. With careful planning and attention to your region’s conditions, these early efforts will reward you with healthier plants, earlier harvests, and a more successful garden year overall.