What Can You Plant in February? A Guide to Seasonal Gardening

February is an exciting month for gardeners, as it marks the start of the planting season for many regions. Depending on your climate and whether you’re gardening indoors or outdoors, there are plenty of plants you can start in February to ensure a bountiful spring and summer harvest. Discover the best vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs to plant this month, along with tips to make the most of your garden.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Vegetables to Plant in February
3. Fruits to Plant in February
4. Herbs to Plant in February
5. Flowers to Plant in February
6. Gardening Tips for February
7. FAQs About February Planting
8. Conclusion
9. Meta Description

Introduction

February is a transitional month in gardening, offering the perfect opportunity to prepare your soil, start seeds indoors, and even sow some hardy crops outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, planting in February can give your garden a head start for the growing season.

Vegetables to Plant in February

1. Indoors (Seed Starting):

• Tomatoes: Start indoors for transplanting in warmer months.
• Peppers: Both sweet and hot varieties thrive when started early.
• Eggplants: Begin indoors for a strong summer harvest.

2. Outdoors (Cool Climates):

• Carrots: Direct-sow in well-drained soil.
• Spinach: Tolerates cool weather and can be planted outdoors in many regions.
• Peas: Snap, snow, or shelling peas thrive in the cool February soil.

3. Outdoors (Mild Climates):

• Beets: Sow directly in the ground for spring harvest.
• Lettuce: Start sowing hardy varieties like romaine or butterhead.
• Onions: Plant sets or seeds in well-prepared soil.

Fruits to Plant in February

1. Bare-Root Trees and Bushes:

• Apples: Plant bare-root varieties while they’re dormant.
• Pears: Choose disease-resistant types for long-term success.
• Raspberries and Blackberries: Great time to establish new canes.

2. Strawberries:

• Plant bare-root strawberries outdoors in raised beds or containers.

3. Blueberries:

• February is ideal for planting bare-root or potted blueberry bushes.

Herbs to Plant in February

1. Indoors (Seed Starting):

• Basil: Start seeds indoors for transplanting later.
• Parsley: A slow germinator, so early planting is key.
• Thyme: Perfect for windowsill or container gardens.

2. Outdoors (Mild Climates):

• Cilantro: Plant seeds directly in cool, fertile soil.
• Chives: Sow directly or divide existing plants.
• Oregano: Hardy herb that can be planted outdoors in mild regions.

Flowers to Plant in February

1. Indoors (Seed Starting):

• Petunias: Start indoors for transplanting in spring.
• Marigolds: Easy to grow and great for pest control in the garden.
• Snapdragons: Add early-season color to your garden.

2. Outdoors (Cool Climates):

• Pansies: Hardy flowers that thrive in cooler weather.
• Sweet Peas: Sow directly outdoors for fragrant blooms.
• Primroses: Plant in well-drained soil for vibrant colors.

3. Outdoors (Mild Climates):

• Calendula: A hardy flower that can handle cool temperatures.
• Daisies: Sow seeds directly for spring blooms.
• Cornflowers: Perfect for mild climates and attract pollinators.

Gardening Tips for February

1. Prepare Your Soil:
   • Add compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
2. Start Seeds Indoors:
   • Use seed trays, grow lights, and heating mats for optimal germination.
3. Prune Trees and Bushes:
   • February is ideal for pruning fruit trees and shrubs while they’re dormant.
4. Protect Young Plants:
   • Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to shield outdoor plants from frost.
5. Plan Your Garden Layout:
   • Sketch out where each crop will go to maximize space and crop rotation.

FAQs About February Planting

1. Can I plant seeds directly outdoors in February?

Answer: Yes, hardy crops like peas, spinach, and carrots can be sown directly outdoors in many regions.

2. What flowers can I start indoors in February?

Answer: Petunias, marigolds, and snapdragons are great choices for indoor seed starting.

3. Is February too early to plant fruit trees?

Answer: No, it’s an ideal time to plant bare-root fruit trees while they’re dormant.

4. Can I plant herbs in February?

Answer: Yes, start herbs like basil and parsley indoors, and plant hardy herbs like cilantro and chives outdoors in mild climates.

5. How do I protect plants from frost in February?

Answer: Use frost blankets, cloches, or cold frames to protect outdoor plants.

Conclusion

February is a versatile month for gardening, offering opportunities to plant indoors and outdoors depending on your climate. From vegetables and fruits to herbs and flowers, starting early gives your garden a strong foundation for the growing season. Plan your planting schedule and enjoy the satisfaction of watching your garden thrive in the months ahead.