What to Plant in February (Especially in Zone 6!)

February may still be deep winter, but savvy gardeners know it’s the perfect time to get a head start on spring. In USDA Zone 6, your indoor grow lights are about to earn their keep. Here’s what to plant this month and how to prepare your garden for the season ahead.

🪴 February Focus: Indoor Starts & Planning

You’re not just waiting—you’re working smart. Use February to:

• Start more cold-hardy vegetables indoors

• Finalize your seed orders

• Prune fruit trees and clean up perennials (if thawed)

• Test soil and amend garden beds (as weather allows)

🌱 What to Plant in February

1. Celery & Celeriac

Slow to germinate—get these going early under lights.

2. Onions & Leeks

Continue nurturing your seedlings started in January.

3. Brassicas (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage)

Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost for transplanting in April.

4. Herbs

Sow parsley, thyme, and oregano indoors for a fragrant jump start.

5. Flowers (Optional)

Start slow-growers like snapdragons or pansies now for a head start on spring color.

🧰 Garden Tasks This Month

• Check germination rates for older seeds

• Organize your seed-starting setup (heat mats, trays, lights)

• Create a planting calendar with frost dates and maturity times

• Clean out cold frames or greenhouses

🔦 Seed Starting Tip of the Month

Use a heat mat to maintain consistent soil temperatures for germination. Most seeds sprout best between 65–75°F. And don’t forget the light—once sprouted, seedlings need 12–16 hours per day.

🌼 Plan, Start, Dream

You’re not behind—you’re right on schedule. February is all about thoughtful beginnings and slow progress. Each seed you plant now brings your garden one step closer to harvest.

Love and Vegetables: Helping you grow through winter—one tray at a time.