February marks a crucial time in the gardening calendar, signaling the transition from winter to spring. For many gardeners across the U.S., it’s a period of preparation—starting seeds indoors, direct sowing hardy crops, and even transplanting outdoors in warmer regions. But what should you plant this month? This guide breaks it down based on USDA growing zones, helping you make the most of your garden space, no matter where you live.
Understanding USDA Zones
The USDA Hardiness Zone Map divides North America into regions based on average annual winter temperatures. Your zone determines what and when you can plant, ensuring that crops have the best chance to thrive in your local climate.
Here’s a quick breakdown of zones covered in this guide:
- Zones 3-5: Cold, with short growing seasons. Ideal for starting seeds indoors.
- Zones 6-7: Milder winters allow for early direct sowing of hardy crops.
- Zones 8-10: Warm climates where many vegetables can be planted outdoors right now.
What to Plant in February (By USDA Zone)
🌿 Zones 3-5: Start Seeds Indoors
In these northern zones, outdoor planting is still limited due to freezing temperatures and frost risk. However, starting seeds indoors gives your plants a head start before transplanting them outdoors in the spring.
✔ Start Indoors:
- Lettuce – Quick-growing and perfect for an early harvest.
- Onions – Take a long time to mature, so starting early is key.
- Broccoli – Hardy and will be ready to transplant when the soil warms.
- Peppers – Slow growers that benefit from an early start.
🔹 Indoor Planting Tips:
- Use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
- Maintain a consistent temperature of 65-75°F for seed germination.
- Use a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.
🥕 Zones 6-7: Direct Sow Cold-Hardy Crops
Gardeners in these zones can begin direct seeding cold-hardy vegetables outdoors, as the soil begins to thaw.
✔ Direct Sow:
- Peas – Can germinate in cool soil and thrive in early spring.
- Spinach – Tolerates frost and grows quickly.
- Radishes – One of the fastest-growing vegetables, ready in 30 days!
- Carrots – Take longer to mature but love cool weather.
🔹 Outdoor Planting Tips:
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Mulch lightly to protect young plants from late frosts.
- Water consistently, as late-winter winds can dry out the soil.
🍅 Zones 8-10: Plant Warm-Season Crops Outdoors
Warmer regions can jump right into outdoor planting this month. With mild temperatures and little frost risk, many summer crops can be started now.
✔ Plant Outdoors:
- Tomatoes – Start early for a long harvest season.
- Cucumbers – Enjoy warm soil and grow quickly.
- Squash – Produces heavily if planted early.
- Beans – Love the warmth and grow rapidly.
🔹 Outdoor Planting Tips:
- Plant in raised beds for better drainage.
- Provide support structures for tomatoes and beans.
- Water regularly, especially in dry regions.
Companion Planting: Enhance Growth & Protect Crops
Pairing plants together can boost growth, improve soil health, and deter pests. Here are some great companion planting tips for your February garden:
✔ Lettuce + Onions – Onions deter pests that eat lettuce.
✔ Carrots + Radishes – Radishes help break up the soil, making it easier for carrots to grow.
✔ Tomatoes + Basil – Basil enhances the flavor of tomatoes and repels pests.
✔ Beans + Cucumbers – Beans fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting cucumbers.
Preparing Your Garden for Spring
Regardless of your zone, February is a great time to prepare your garden for the season ahead.
✔ Enrich the Soil – Add compost and organic matter to improve fertility.
✔ Start a Seedling Tray – Even in warmer zones, starting some plants in trays can provide stronger seedlings.
✔ Plan Your Garden Layout – Rotate crops to prevent soil depletion.
✔ Prune Fruit Trees – Late winter is ideal for pruning to encourage healthy growth.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you live, February is a great time to get a head start on gardening. Whether you’re starting seeds indoors, direct sowing hardy crops, or planting warm-season vegetables, following the right steps based on your USDA zone will ensure a thriving garden in the months ahead.
What are you planting this February? Drop your USDA zone and garden plans in the comments below! 🌱👇