7 seeds you should plant now in February so they’re ready to grow in March, according to gardeners
Which seeds can I plant in winter that will be ready to grow over the next few months?
The long, dreary winter is almost out of the way, with longer days and brighter evenings coming in to roost slowly but surely. There will soon be lambs in the fields and birdsong in the air, meaning it’s better than ever to get your fingers dirty and plant some seeds.
February can be an exciting time to plant for those reasons, and there are a few specific seeds that can go in the ground now...
How to plant broccoli
Broccoli thrives in along the west coast and in the southern states when planted in early spring. For best results, choose fast-maturing varieties like De Cicco and use rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
They need to be planted indoors six weeks before the last frost and transplant seedlings when they’re four weeks old. They need a lot of room: up to 20 inches between plants to be exact. They need around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week but do not get water on the developing heads. They are ready to harvest when the florets are tightly closed in the middle but just starting to loosen slightly around the edges.
You say calabrese, supermarkets say broccoli. Grow broccoli from the bit you would usually throw away. It’s so easy. 😍 pic.twitter.com/vw096SRN1Q
— Simon Akeroyd (@SimonAkeroyd) May 6, 2023
How to plant herbs
Herbs are without a doubt the most common plant for households this time of year. Basil, oregano and thyme all differ in terms of care and treatment, with seed-starter soil mixes often recommended. If they’re not being grown with an artificial light, make sure to plant them near a window sill, close to the sunlight.
How to plant lettuce
In the same way as broccoli, lettuce can struggle to grow in states away from the west coast climate and the southernmost states in the country, although seedlings can tolerate a light frost.
It is recommended to sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep in single rows, straight into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked.
Despite it being a popular choice for gardeners, there are a few things to remember with lettuce: the plant has shallow roots, so it must be weeded carefully. It’s also recommended to plant lettuce near taller plants, like tomatoes, so the leaves are in the shade during the warmer parts of the day.
This is how to harvest lettuce using modern technology. pic.twitter.com/SC9yJxpVAp
— Agriculture Insider (@Agriculfuture) February 12, 2025
How to plant onions
Onions can be grown from seeds or sets (immature onion bulbs), though the former is recommended as it offers more variety and is especially rewarding.
Short-day onions thrive in southern climates, while long-day onions are better suited for the more northern regions of the country. Seeds should be started indoors two months before the last frost, and be planted just 1/4 inch deep in potting mix and covered with plastic until they sprout. They should be kept in full sun and watered regularly.
How to plant peppers
Peppers are so popular due to the little amount of space needed to grow. They thrive in warm weather and have a long growing season, making it essential for northern gardeners to start seeds indoors, 1/4 inch deep, gently pressing them into the soil. Planting should start indoors eight weeks before the last frost date, or up to 12 weeks for hot pepper varieties (wear gloves!).
Cover seed trays with plastic to keep them warm, and remember that moist conditions and encourage germination. Once they begin to appear, the peppers may require support from stakes or tomato cages to prevent bending.
This is how to grow chill pepper at home. pic.twitter.com/Huqj9G9hIF
— Agriculture Insider (@Agriculfuture) January 26, 2025
How to plant tomatoes
The most common garden vegetable, tomatoes are often grown from store-bought transplants. However, we recommend growing from seed as it more variety, including red, yellow, seedless, and heirloom types. Homegrown tomatoes are delicious fresh or used in sauces, canning, and other recipes.
Seeds should ideally be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, planting 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting soil. They should be kept near a heat source until they sprout before moving to full light.
2-3 weeks after the last frost they can be moved outside, always remembering to bury two-thirds of the stem. They should be kept in full sunlight and watered weekly.
How to plant annual and perennial flowers
Plenty of flowers can be planted now in time for spring. Everything from marigolds to geraniums can grow across the United States, with zinnias, daisies and poppies all popular choices for those with green fingers. Each species of plant is its own special case, but the variety is what’s most appealing to those who enjoy the hobby.
This is how you can grow tomatoes at home using recycled plastic bottles! 🌱🍅 👇🏿 pic.twitter.com/6jXAR16PjB
— Gisa w'I Rwanda🇷🇼❤️🇷🇼 (@EmmyGisa3) February 4, 2025
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