Top 20 Seeds to Start Planting Indoors and Sow Directly Outdoors in February
February might still feel like winter in many places, but for gardeners, it’s the perfect time to get a head start on the growing season. Whether you want to start seeds indoors for an early jump or directly sow cold-hardy plants outdoors, this guide will help you choose the best seeds for February planting.
Indoor Seed Starting: Best Seeds to Plant Indoors in February
Starting seeds indoors allows for earlier harvests and stronger plants by the time spring arrives. Here are ten great seeds to start inside this month.
1. Tomatoes
- Best varieties: Roma, Cherry, Beefsteak
- Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost
- Transplant outdoors when temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C)
2. Peppers (Bell & Hot)
- Require a long growing season
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost
- Need warm temperatures (70-80°F) for optimal germination
3. Eggplant
- Best started indoors due to their long growing season
- Needs plenty of warmth and light
4. Broccoli
- Prefers cooler temperatures, making February an ideal indoor start time
- Ready to transplant in early spring
5. Cabbage
- Can be started indoors and transplanted 4-6 weeks later
- Thrives in cool weather
6. Lettuce
- Leafy greens like Romaine and Butterhead are perfect for early indoor starts
- Can be transplanted outdoors as soon as the soil is workable
7. Kale
- Hardy and quick-growing
- Can be transplanted outdoors early, even before the last frost
8. Onions (from seeds)
- Requires a long season, so starting in February ensures good bulb development
- Can be moved outdoors in early spring
9. Cauliflower
- Needs a head start indoors for successful growth
- Prefers cooler weather and can be transplanted early
10. Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Oregano, Thyme, and Chives)
- Many herbs need a warm environment to germinate
- Can be grown indoors year-round or transplanted outside later
Direct Outdoor Sowing: Seeds to Plant Outside in February
For gardeners in milder climates, certain hardy seeds can be sown directly outdoors this month.
11. Carrots
- Can be sown outdoors as soon as the soil is workable
- Prefers cool weather for germination
12. Spinach
- Cold-hardy and thrives in early spring
- Can be sown directly outdoors now for an early harvest
13. Radishes
- One of the fastest-growing crops
- Can be planted in February for an early spring harvest
14. Peas
- Cold-hardy and can handle light frosts
- Plant outdoors in late February for early spring yields
15. Beets
- Can germinate in cooler soil
- Perfect for direct sowing in late February
16. Swiss Chard
- Can be planted outdoors as soon as the ground is workable
- Hardy and versatile
17. Turnips
- Thrive in cooler weather
- Direct sow in February for early spring harvest
18. Arugula
- Loves cool temperatures
- Can be planted outdoors for an early salad crop
19. Parsnips
- Require a long growing season
- Sow seeds in February for best results
20. Mustard Greens
- Cold-tolerant and fast-growing
- Perfect for early outdoor planting
Tips for Successful February Seed Planting
- Use Grow Lights Indoors: Seedlings need at least 12-16 hours of light daily.
- Maintain Proper Soil Temperature: Heat mats help warm-season crops like peppers and tomatoes germinate.
- Harden Off Transplants: Gradually introduce indoor-started seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
- Choose Cold-Hardy Varieties for Outdoor Sowing: Some seeds tolerate frost and can be planted early.
- Prepare the Soil: Make sure your garden beds are well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Conclusion
February is the perfect time to start your gardening season early! By choosing the right seeds to start indoors and directly sow outdoors, you’ll set yourself up for a successful growing season. Whether you’re looking to grow tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants inside or plant hardy greens and root vegetables outside, now’s the time to get those seeds in the soil!
FAQs
1. What vegetables can I plant indoors in February?
You can start tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, broccoli, cabbage, and herbs indoors this month for an early start on the growing season.
2. Can I plant seeds directly outside in February?
Yes! Cold-hardy vegetables like spinach, carrots, peas, and radishes can be sown outdoors in February, especially in milder climates.
3. How can I speed up seed germination indoors?
Use a seedling heat mat, maintain proper moisture levels, and provide adequate light with grow lights to speed up germination.
4. When should I transplant indoor seedlings outside?
Transplant when the weather is warm enough for each crop—typically after the last frost date in your region.
5. How do I protect outdoor-sown seeds from frost?
Use row covers, mulch, or cold frames to keep soil temperatures stable and protect young seedlings from unexpected frosts.
Happy Gardening!
