February Gardening: What to Sow and Grow
Spring is in the Air
The long winter wait is finally over! It’s February, and while the frost and rain may still be lingering, you can almost smell the spring in the air. That means it’s time to start sowing seeds again!
Greenhouse Crops and Bedding Plants
For now, it’s safest to focus on greenhouse crops and bedding plants. These plants need a head start to thrive in the coming season.
Tomatoes: A World of Flavors
Tomatoes are a must-have for any garden. With over 10,000 varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. Start with a reliable salad tomato like ‘Ailsa Craig’ and then experiment with something unusual, like a juicy beefsteak or a sweet cherry tomato.
Jerusalem Artichokes: Easy and Nutritious
Jerusalem artichokes are incredibly easy to grow. Plant just one or two tubers now, and they’ll quickly multiply into a clump of tall stems topped with cheerful yellow sunflowers in the summer. Dig up the knobbly, nutty tubers in the winter, leaving some behind to resprout next year.
Sweet Peas: A Fragrant Delight
Sweet peas are known for their gorgeous flowers and intoxicating fragrance. Grow them up hazel wigwams for a stunning display or train them up individual supports for long, straight stems perfect for cutting. Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous flowering.
French Marigolds: Beauty and Pest Control
French marigolds are a cheerful addition to any garden. They’re easy to grow from seed and provide a splash of sunshiney color all summer long. Plant them under tomatoes in the greenhouse to deter whitefly, which hates their distinctive smell.
Tips for Success
- Choose a reliable seed supplier to ensure high-quality seeds.
- Start seeds indoors in a warm, sunny location.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors.
- Water plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize plants according to the package directions.
February Gardening Calendar
To Do:
- Sow tomatoes, Jerusalem artichokes, sweet peas, and French marigolds indoors.
- Start hardening off seedlings.
- Prepare garden beds for transplanting.
Don’t Forget:
- Check for pests and diseases regularly.
- Deadhead flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
