What to Plant in February β Your Essential Guide for a Thriving Garden
February marks the transition from winter to spring, making it the perfect time to start seeds indoors, plant cool-season crops, and prepare for warmer weather. Whether youβre growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or perennials, knowing what to plant in February based on your climate zone will set your garden up for success.
In this guide, weβll cover what vegetables, flowers, and perennials you can plant in February, whether youβre in a cold, mild, or warm climate. Plus, get expert Master Gardener tips to help your plants thrive!
What Vegetables to Plant in February
February is a great time to start cool-weather crops in most regions. In warmer zones, you can even begin planting warm-season vegetables outdoors.
Cold Climates (Zones 4-6) β Indoor Seed Starting
If youβre in a colder region where the ground is still frozen, focus on starting seeds indoors to get a jump on spring.
- Leafy Greens β Lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, kale
- Brassicas β Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts
- Root Crops β Onions, leeks, celery
- Herbs β Parsley, chives
Mild Climates (Zones 7-8) β Direct Sow & Transplant
In moderate climates, you can start direct sowing cold-hardy vegetables and transplant seedlings outdoors.
- Direct Sow β Carrots, beets, radishes, peas, turnips, leafy greens
- Transplant Outdoors β Onions, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, kale
Warm Climates (Zones 9-10) β Full Outdoor Planting
If you live in a frost-free zone, February is a great time to plant warm-season crops outdoors.
- Vegetables β Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, beans, squash
- Herbs β Basil, oregano, thyme, cilantro
π‘ Master Gardener Tip β Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors to prevent transplant shock. Move them outside for a few hours a day, gradually increasing exposure over a week.
What Flowers to Plant in February
Cold Climates (Start Indoors)
If frost is still a concern, start flowers indoors to get early blooms.
- Snapdragons
- Pansies & Violas
- Delphinium
- Larkspur
- Sweet Peas
Mild to Warm Climates (Direct Sow or Transplant)
If youβre in a warmer region, February is the perfect time to start hardy flowers outdoors.
- Wildflowers (California poppies, black-eyed Susans)
- Nasturtiums
- Marigolds
- Calendula
- Foxgloves
π‘ Master Gardener Tip β For an extended blooming season, stagger plantings of flowers like calendula and marigolds every two weeks.
What Perennials & Shrubs to Plant in February
- Bare-root Roses β Plant before new growth starts for strong root development
- Fruit Trees & Berry Bushes β Apples, pears, blueberries, raspberries should be planted before bud break
- Lavender & Rosemary β Perfect for well-draining soil in warm climates
- Native Perennials β Choose plants suited to your specific climate for low-maintenance beauty
π‘ Master Gardener Tip β Prune existing perennials before new spring growth to promote healthy plants. Cut back dead stems and remove weak branches.
Key February Gardening Tasks
- Start Seeds Indoors β Get a head start on cool-season vegetables and flowers
- Prune Trees & Shrubs β Shape fruit trees and ornamental shrubs before bud break
- Prepare Garden Beds β Add compost and organic matter to enrich the soil
- Use Row Covers or Cold Frames β Protect young plants from late frost
Final Thoughts
February is a pivotal month for gardeners looking to get ahead of the growing season. Whether youβre starting seeds indoors, planting hardy crops, or getting perennials in the ground, these early efforts will pay off in a lush, productive garden come spring!
What are you planting this February? Let us know in the comments!
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