This post is all about what seeds to start in February!
Wondering what to plant in February? Here is a rundown of seeds we can start to get a kickstart on the season.
February might still feel a bit frosty, but it marks the perfect time to get ahead of the growing season by starting seeds indoors and direct sowing a select few. Let’s dive into what is worth planting in February in zone 7!
As we begin inching closer to spring, the number of seeds we can begin starting increases. Keep in mind that you do not have to start seeds indoors, you can purchase starts from Lowes or a nursery once it is time to transplant or directly sow outdoors.
My first few years of gardening I directly sowed everything and was successful. The only downside was for some veggies I wasn’t able to harvest until later in the season, decreasing my potential yield. This is why I recommend starting indoors if you are able, to extend growing season for cool weather crops (especially being here in Oklahoma) and allowing more harvesting potential.
Knowing what to plant in February could be the most difficult part. I have you covered. Below is a general guideline that I go by for February here in zone 7. I do deviate a bit depending on the weather and the last frost date, especially for warm weather crops.
{Related Post: 13 Frost Tolerant Vegetables to Keep Your Garden in a Flourishing Frenzy}
Indoor Seed Starting
Indoor seed starting is a game-changer for anyone looking to get a head start on the growing season. The first thing you will want to do is setup a seed starting station/corner/rack. At the moment I utilize the counter in the laundry room for my seed starting, the family loves it.
To set up a seed starting station, a few key elements are crucial. First and foremost, ample light is non-negotiable. Invest in a quality, adjustable grow light to ensure your seedlings receive the right amount of light. Next up, trays or small pots with drainage holes are essential for preventing waterlogged soil and ensuring optimal root health. Look into a good seed starting mix or make your own to increase germination.
{Related Post: Make Your Own Seed Starting Mix | 3 Must Try Easy Recipes}
Another element we want to look at is maintaining a consistent temperature in the range of 65-75°F (18-24°C) to encourage robust germination. For peppers and tomatoes I like to use a heating mat.
Lastly, we creep into the territory of do as I say and not as I do. I highly recommend labeling, it is a small but critical detail – trust me, you won’t remember which tomato variety is which without it.
Patience and a touch of TLC go a long way. So, set up your station (in my case, laundry room counter) with these essentials, and watch your indoor garden dreams take root.
What to Plant in February- Indoors
- Artichokes
- Transplant in March
- Asian Greens
- Transplant mid March to mid April
- Basil
- Transplant in April (After last frost)
- Broccoli
- Start as early in February as possible. Transplant a month after starting indoors
- Cabbage
- Start as early in February as possible. Transplant a month after starting indoors
- Cauliflower
- Start as early in February as possible. Transplant a month after starting indoors
- Celery
- Transplant in April
- Chard
- Transplant in March
- Collard Greens
- Transplant in March
- Eggplant
- Transplant in April (After last frost)
- Kale
- Transplant in March
- Kohlrabi
- Transplant in mid March to Mid April
- Leeks
- Transplant in March
- Lettuce
- Transplant in mid February to mid March
- Oregano
- Transplant in April (After last frost)
- Peppers
- Transplant in late April (After last frost)
- Spinach
- Transplant in March
- Tomatoes
- Transplant in April (After last frost)
Direct Sowing
Skip the indoor seed starting and plant seeds directly in the outdoor soil. Direct sowing is the no-nonsense approach to gardening. It’s a method that suits a variety of plants, particularly those that don’t take well to transplanting. It is also my preferred method for plants that mature fairly quickly.
Begin by choosing a suitable spot in your garden with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight.
Sow the seeds at the recommended depth, remember to follow the spacing guidelines on the seed packet to allow for proper growth.
What to Plant in February- Directly outside
- Arugula
- Beets
- Carrots
- Fava Beans
- Peas
- Radishes
- Spinach
