What to Start Planting in January and February (Gardening Zones 6, 7, 8)

The new year brings fresh opportunities to get a jump-start on the gardening season. Whether you’re in zones 6, 7, or 8, January and February are great months to start planning and planting for a successful year ahead. Here’s a guide to what you can plant outdoors now and what seeds you should start indoors for a head start on spring.

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Zone 6 Gardening (Average Last Frost: Mid to Late April)

January:
While outdoor planting is limited, there are a few hardy crops that can be sown:

• Garlic: If you didn’t plant it in the fall, you can still get cloves into the ground if the soil is workable.
• Shallots: Plant in well-drained soil for an early summer harvest.

Indoor Seed Starting (Late January – February):

• Onions and Leeks: Start seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost.
• Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage can be started indoors now.
• Herbs: Parsley, thyme, and oregano do well when started indoors early.

February:

• Spinach: Sow directly in the garden as soon as the soil is workable.
• Peas: Plant directly outdoors mid to late February for an early harvest.
• Lettuce and Greens: Cold-tolerant varieties can be direct-seeded under row covers.

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Zone 7 Gardening (Average Last Frost: Early to Mid-April)

January:

• Garlic and Shallots: If you missed fall planting, January is your last chance.
• Asparagus Crowns: Can be planted now in well-prepared beds.

Indoor Seed Starting (Late January – February):

• Onions and Leeks: Start now for an early summer harvest.
• Tomatoes and Peppers: Start indoors toward the end of February.
• Cool-season Vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, and kale benefit from an early indoor start.

February:

• Peas: Plant directly outdoors in mid-February.
• Radishes and Carrots: Direct sow in well-drained soil.
• Potatoes: Early varieties can be planted in late February.

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Zone 8 Gardening (Average Last Frost: Early to Mid-March)

January:

• Onions and Garlic: If not planted in fall, there’s still time to get them in the ground.
• Shallots: Plant now for a late spring harvest.
• Bare-root Fruit Trees: January is a great time to plant apples, pears, and stone fruits.

Indoor Seed Starting (Late January – February):

• Tomatoes and Peppers: Start indoors by late January for an early jump on the growing season.
• Eggplants: These heat lovers need an early start indoors.
• Herbs: Start basil, chives, and cilantro indoors.

February:

• Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and mustard greens can be sown directly.
• Carrots and Beets: Direct sow these root vegetables.
• Potatoes: Late February is an ideal planting time.

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Indoor Seed Starting Tips for Success

• Use seed trays with good drainage and a high-quality seed-starting mix.
• Provide ample light—use grow lights if natural sunlight is limited.
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Harden off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

By planning ahead and starting seeds indoors at the right time, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving spring garden. Happy planting!