Top 10 Seed Varieties to Buy in February

Introduction

February is an exciting time for gardeners as the growing season begins to take shape. This is the perfect month to plan your garden and stock up on seeds for early sowing and preparation. From hardy vegetables to colorful flowers, there are plenty of seed varieties to choose from that will thrive when started in late winter.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 10 seed varieties to buy in February, along with tips for planting and nurturing them for a successful growing season.

Why Buy Seeds in February?

• Early Start: Allows for indoor sowing, giving plants a head start for spring.
• Better Availability: Stock up before popular varieties sell out.
• Extended Growing Season: Some seeds can be sown now for an earlier harvest.
• Excitement and Planning: February seed shopping gets you inspired and organized for the gardening year ahead.

Top 10 Seed Varieties to Buy in February

1. Tomatoes

• Why Buy Now: February is ideal for starting tomatoes indoors under grow lights.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Gardener’s Delight,’ ‘Moneymaker,’ ‘Roma,’ and ‘Sun Gold.’
• Tips for Success: Sow seeds in seed trays with light compost. Keep at 18–21°C (65–70°F) and transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.

2. Peppers (Sweet and Chili)

• Why Buy Now: Peppers need a long growing season, so an early start is essential.
• Popular Varieties: Sweet: ‘California Wonder,’ Chili: ‘Jalapeño,’ ‘Cayenne.’
• Tips for Success: Start seeds indoors in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights. Use a propagator for best results.

3. Broad Beans

• Why Buy Now: Broad beans are cold-tolerant and can be directly sown outdoors in February.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Aquadulce Claudia,’ ‘Super Aquadulce.’
• Tips for Success: Sow in well-drained soil and protect young plants with cloches if frost is expected.

4. Lettuce

• Why Buy Now: Lettuce varieties grow quickly and are perfect for early sowing indoors or under cloches.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Little Gem,’ ‘Lollo Rosso,’ ‘Buttercrunch.’
• Tips for Success: Sow seeds in modules and transplant to a sunny spot when the soil warms up.

5. Spinach

• Why Buy Now: Hardy spinach varieties can be sown in February for an early crop.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Medania,’ ‘Perpetual Spinach.’
• Tips for Success: Sow directly in well-prepared soil or in modules for later transplanting.

6. Onions

• Why Buy Now: Onion seeds or sets started in February will produce larger bulbs.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Red Baron,’ ‘Ailsa Craig,’ ‘Sturon.’
• Tips for Success: Start seeds in trays indoors or sow sets directly into well-drained soil.

7. Carrots

• Why Buy Now: Early carrot varieties can be sown under cloches or in containers.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Nantes,’ ‘Chantenay Red Cored,’ ‘Early Scarlet Horn.’
• Tips for Success: Sow seeds in light, sandy soil and thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding.

8. Sweet Peas

• Why Buy Now: Sweet peas are a favorite for their vibrant colors and fragrance. Starting seeds in February ensures strong, healthy plants.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Spencer Mix,’ ‘Old Spice,’ ‘Matucana.’
• Tips for Success: Soak seeds overnight before sowing in pots. Pinch out tips when plants are 10 cm tall to encourage bushy growth.

9. Leeks

• Why Buy Now: Leeks sown in February will be ready for a late summer or autumn harvest.
• Popular Varieties: ‘Musselburgh,’ ‘King Richard.’
• Tips for Success: Start seeds indoors or in a greenhouse and transplant seedlings when they are pencil-thick.

10. Parsley

• Why Buy Now: Parsley is a versatile herb that can be grown indoors or outdoors year-round.
• Popular Varieties: Flat-leaf: ‘Italian Giant,’ Curly: ‘Moss Curled.’
• Tips for Success: Soak seeds for a few hours before sowing to improve germination. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Tips for Buying and Storing Seeds

1. Buy from Reputable Sources: Purchase seeds from trusted suppliers to ensure quality and viability.
2. Check Expiration Dates: Use fresh seeds or check that they’re within their germination window.
3. Store Properly: Keep seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain their viability.
4. Plan Ahead: Choose seeds that suit your climate, soil type, and garden layout.
5. Label Clearly: Label seed packets or trays to avoid confusion during planting.

How to Start Seeds Indoors

1. Choose Containers: Use seed trays, pots, or modules with drainage holes.
2. Use Light Compost: Fill containers with seed compost to promote healthy germination.
3. Plant at the Right Depth: Follow the seed packet instructions for sowing depth.
4. Water Gently: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Use a fine mist spray to avoid disturbing seeds.
5. Provide Light and Warmth: Place trays in a sunny window or under grow lights. Maintain a temperature suitable for the seed type.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbuying Seeds

Stick to varieties you know you’ll have space and time to grow.

2. Using the Wrong Soil

Seed compost is lighter and more suitable for germination than garden soil.

3. Planting Too Early

Ensure conditions are right for indoor or outdoor sowing to avoid poor germination.

4. Overcrowding Seeds

Sow thinly to prevent seedlings from competing for light and nutrients.

5. Skipping Labels

Label trays and pots to keep track of varieties and planting dates.

Top 10 Questions About Buying Seeds in February

1. Why buy seeds in February?
February is the ideal time to start early crops and ensure popular varieties don’t sell out.

2. What vegetables can I sow indoors in February?
Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, spinach, and leeks are great options for indoor sowing.

3. Can I sow seeds directly outdoors in February?
Yes, hardy vegetables like broad beans, carrots, and onions can be sown outdoors if the soil is workable.

4. How do I store leftover seeds?
Store seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place in an airtight container.

5. Do I need grow lights to start seeds indoors?
While not essential, grow lights ensure strong, healthy seedlings in low-light conditions.

6. Can I grow flowers from seed in February?
Yes, sweet peas and hardy annuals are excellent flower choices to start in February.

7. How long do seeds take to germinate?
Germination time varies by seed type, ranging from a few days to several weeks.

8. What is the best compost for seed sowing?
Use a light, well-draining seed compost for optimal germination.

9. How often should I water seeds?
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

10. Can I reuse seeds from last year?
Yes, but check germination rates and ensure seeds were stored properly.

Conclusion

February is an exciting time to plan your garden and stock up on seeds. By choosing the right varieties and starting them early, you’ll set yourself up for a productive and enjoyable gardening season. Whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, the seeds you sow this month will reward you with bountiful harvests and vibrant blooms.

Start your seed shopping today and look forward to a thriving garden this year!