UK growing guide · Winter
What can I plant in February?
February marks the transition from winter into early spring. While temperatures are still low, daylight is increasing and it is a great time to begin sowing more crops under cover and preparing your garden for the busy months ahead.
Back to planting calendarWhat can you sow in February?
February is still a relatively quiet month outdoors, but it offers more flexibility than January. As daylight increases, seedlings grow more reliably and gardeners can begin expanding their sowing plans.
Most seeds should still be started indoors or under cover, but hardy crops can be sown outside when conditions allow.
Good preparation now will give your garden a strong start when spring arrives.
Vegetables to sow indoors
- Onions (seed)
- Leeks (seed)
- Tomatoes (requires warmth and light)
- Chillies and peppers (requires heated propagator)
- Aubergines (warm conditions needed)
Vegetables to sow outdoors
- Broad beans (if soil is workable)
- Garlic cloves (in well-drained soil)
- Shallots (in well-drained soil)
Tip: February seedlings need plenty of light to prevent weak growth. A bright windowsill or grow light will make a big difference.
Tips & common mistakes
February gardening tips and common mistakes
February is a month of preparation and early action. Mistakes made now can slow growth later, so careful planning and observation are key to a successful season.
Starting seedlings without enough light
Increasing daylight helps, but young plants still need strong light to grow properly.
Sowing outdoors too soon
Cold or waterlogged soil can delay germination and damage seeds.
Ignoring frost protection
Late frosts are still common in February. Use fleece or cloches when needed.
Overcrowding seedlings
Early sowings need thinning or potting on to avoid weak growth.
Skipping garden preparation
February is ideal for soil improvement, tool checks and planning layouts.
Garden planning and task management features
Sproutly Gardening helps you organise your plants, plan tasks and set reminders so nothing is forgotten.
Record your sowings
Track which vegetables you have started indoors or under cover.
Plan upcoming jobs
Schedule soil preparation, tool maintenance and pruning.
Set reminders
Never forget to check seedlings, protect crops or water indoor plants.
Review your progress
Keep notes on what worked well and what you want to change next year.
Ready to plan your February garden?
Start the year organised and confident. Add your February plants to Sproutly Gardening today and make sure nothing is missed.
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Gardening advice is provided as a general guide based on typical UK conditions. Weather soil and local climate can vary so always use your judgement and adjust timing as needed for your own garden.