February marks a significant turning point in the gardening calendar, especially for those living in USDA hardiness zones 8 and 9.

These regions typically enjoy milder winter climates, allowing gardeners to get a head start on their planting efforts.

With the potential for blooming flowers and vibrant vegetables come spring, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden beds and sow seeds.

This detailed guide will help you identify the best vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants suitable for planting in February, focusing on the specifics for zones 8 and 9.

Vegetables To Plant In February

February offers an excellent opportunity to plant both seeds and seedlings, as the risk of frost decreases. Here are 10 vegetables that are well-suited for planting this month in zones 8 and 9:

1. Peas (Pisum sativum)

Temperature Tolerance: Peas thrive in cool temperatures and can tolerate frost, with optimal growth between 45°F and 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant peas directly in the garden early in February.

Peas are one of the first crops to plant and can often yield a generous harvest in late spring. They require well-drained soil and benefit from support, such as trellises.

2. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Temperature Tolerance: Spinach thrives in cool weather and can tolerate light frost, with best performance at about 40°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Directly sow seeds in early February.

Spinach grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times. Ensure consistent moisture for tender leaves and space seeds appropriately for adequate growth.

3. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica)

Temperature Tolerance: Kale is a hardy green, with frost tolerance and best growth between 45°F and 65°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is a perfect time for sowing seeds directly or transplanting seedlings.

Kale develops a rich flavor after exposure to frost, making it ideal for winter gardens. Plant it in well-draining soil and maintain consistent watering.

4. Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla)

Temperature Tolerance: Swiss chard tolerates cold but prefers temperatures around 55°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Seeds can be sown in early February for a spring harvest.

Swiss chard is very versatile and can provide colorful leaves throughout the growing season, thriving in moderately fertile soil.

5. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Temperature Tolerance: Radishes grow best in cooler soil with optimal temperatures around 50°F to 65°F, tolerant of light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds in early February for quick germination.

Radishes can be harvested in as little as three weeks, making them a great choice for quick returns. They prefer well-draining, loose soil for optimal root development.

6. Carrots (Daucus carota)

Temperature Tolerance: Carrots can tolerate light frost and prefer cooler conditions ranging from 45°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is ideal for sowing seeds.

Carrots require deep, loose soil to grow well. Water them regularly to maintain consistent moisture for proper root formation.

7. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica)

Temperature Tolerance: Broccoli is a frost-tolerant plant, thriving between 45°F and 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Start seeds indoors in January for transplanting in early February, or sow seeds directly in mid-February.

Broccoli produces best in cooler weather conditions and should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth.

8. Onions (Allium cepa)

Temperature Tolerance: Onions handle cold weather well and prefer conditions between 50°F and 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant onion sets or seedlings in early February.

Onions are relatively easy to grow and can be harvested in both green and bulb forms depending on your preference and planting time.

9. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Temperature Tolerance: Lettuce can tolerate light frosts, growing best at temperatures of 45°F to 65°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds in early February for a spring harvest.

Lettuce grows quickly and can be harvested young. It prefers soil that is consistently moist and well-drained.

10. Beets (Beta vulgaris)

Temperature Tolerance: Beets thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally around 50°F to 75°F, and can handle light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for direct sowing.

Beets can be harvested for both their roots and greens, making them a versatile choice for the garden.

Flowers To Plant In February

In zones 8 and 9, February is a fantastic time to start planting a variety of colorful flowers that can provide vibrant blooms as the season progresses. Below are 10 flowers that can be successfully planted in February, along with their growing requirements.

1. Pansies (Viola × wittrockiana)

Temperature Tolerance: Pansies tolerate frost and favor cooler temperatures between 40°F and 65°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for planting.

Pansies offer vibrant colors and can bloom even in cooler September, making them perfect for early spring displays.

2. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)

Temperature Tolerance: Snapdragons thrive best in cooler conditions and can tolerate light frost, ideally between 50°F and 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant in early February.

These hardy annuals provide a range of colors and heights, making them a versatile choice for borders and containers.

3. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)

Temperature Tolerance: Sweet peas enjoy cooler weather and can tolerate light frosts, preferring temperatures between 40°F and 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds directly in early February.

Sweet peas bring a delightful fragrance and climbing ability to your garden, perfect for trellises or fences.

4. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Columbines are frost-tolerant perennial flowers that thrive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is an excellent time to sow seeds.

Columbines produce unique flower shapes and are excellent for attracting pollinators.

5. Primrose (Primula spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Primroses flourish in cooler temperatures around 40°F to 60°F and tolerate frost well.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant in early February.

These beautiful perennials add bright colors to winter and early spring gardens.

6. Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Dianthus can endure light frost and thrive best in temperatures from 50°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is appropriate for planting.

Known for their fragrance and colorful blooms, Dianthus can brighten up any garden setting.

7. Verbena (Verbena spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Verbenas prefer mild temperatures and can tolerate light frost, ideally around 60°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for planting.

These colorful flowering perennials are great for attracting butterflies to your garden.

8. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Temperature Tolerance: Nasturtiums grow well in cooler weather, preferring temperatures around 60°F to 75°F, and can handle light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is a good time for sowing.

These colorful, edible flowers add beauty and flavor to your garden and plates alike.

9. Dusty Miller (Jacobaea maritima)

Temperature Tolerance: Dusty miller thrives in cooler weather and tolerates light frost, ideally from 40°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is fitting for planting.

This perennial features striking silvery foliage, making it a great complement to bolder flower colors.

10. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

Temperature Tolerance: California poppies prefer mild temperatures and can tolerate light frost, growing best around 50°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for direct sowing.

These hardy annuals bloom beautifully and are perfect for drought-prone areas, requiring minimal maintenance once established.

Herbs To Plant In February

Herbs are a fabulous addition to any garden, providing flavors for culinary creations while enhancing landscape aesthetics. Here are 10 herbs that can be planted in February in zones 8 and 9:

1. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Temperature Tolerance: Parsley thrives in cooler growing conditions and can tolerate frost, preferably around 55°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is ideal for direct sowing.

Parsley grows well in well-drained soil and can be utilized in many culinary applications.

2. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Temperature Tolerance: Cilantro prefers cooler conditions, ideally thriving in temperatures around 50°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Mid-February is suitable for sowing seeds.

Cilantro is fast-growing, making it great for a quick harvest option throughout the spring.

3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Temperature Tolerance: Chives prefer mild temperatures and tolerate light frost, thriving between 50°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is perfect for planting seeds or dividing clumps.

Chives are perennial herbs that enhance various dishes with their mild onion flavor.

4. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Temperature Tolerance: Thyme thrives in mild temperatures, tolerating frost at around 60°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is appropriate for planting.

Thyme’s drought tolerance makes it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

5. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Temperature Tolerance: Oregano prefers mild to warm conditions and can handle frost, thriving ideally around 60°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for planting seeds.

Oregano is used in many Italian dishes, making it an essential herb in the kitchen.

6. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Temperature Tolerance: Sage grows best at temperatures around 60°F to 75°F, tolerating light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February works well for planting.

This perennial herb is known for its robust flavor and can survive in less-than-ideal soil conditions.

7. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Temperature Tolerance: Basil prefers warmer temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 85°F, and is sensitive to frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Start indoors in late February or early March for transplanting once danger of frost has passed.

Basil is a crucial ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Mediterranean dishes.

8. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Temperature Tolerance: Dill prefers cooler conditions, thriving optimally between 50°F and 75°F while tolerating light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is ideal for direct sowing outdoors.

Dill’s unique flavor enhances pickles and many other dishes, and its delicate flowers attract pollinators.

9. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Temperature Tolerance: Fennel grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F and can tolerate light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for direct sowing.

Fennel adds both culinary value and ornamental interest to gardens, with its beautiful fronds.

10. Borage (Borago officinalis)

Temperature Tolerance: Borage prefers mild conditions, thriving best between 60°F and 75°F and tolerating light frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is ideal for sowing seeds directly.

Borage produces beautiful blue flowers and has culinary uses, adding a refreshing taste to salads and drinks.

Landscape Plants To Plant In February

February is also the perfect time to enhance your landscape with a variety of hardy plants that will thrive in the warmer months. Here are 10 landscape plants suitable for zones 8 and 9 that can be planted in February:

1. Ornamental Cabbage and Kale (Brassica oleracea)

Temperature Tolerance: Ornamental cabbage and kale can survive frost and thrive in cool weather between 40°F and 65°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant in early February.

These colorful plants add visual interest to winter landscapes and can endure colder temperatures.

2. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Hellebores thrive in cool temperatures, ideally between 40°F and 60°F, and can tolerate frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for planting.

With their early spring blooms, hellebores bring beauty to gardens when many other plants are still dormant.

3. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Temperature Tolerance: This tree tolerates cold weather and thrives well in temperatures ranging from 35°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is an excellent time to plant.

Redbuds offer stunning pink blooms that create dramatic landscapes in the spring.

4. Forsythia (Forsythia spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Forsythia is hardy, thriving in conditions ranging from 35°F to 75°F and can withstand frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Plant in late February for vibrant spring blooms.

This shrub is known for its striking yellow flowers, heralding the arrival of spring.

5. Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris)

Temperature Tolerance: Lilacs tolerate frost well and prefer cooler temperatures around 40°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is fitting for planting.

Lilacs provide fragrant blooms that attract butterflies and enhance gardens with their aromatic presence.

6. Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Flowering quince is hardy and grows well in temperatures from 30°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is suitable for planting.

This plant will showcase beautiful early spring flowers and provide fruit later in the season.

7. Snowdrop (Galanthus spp.)

Temperature Tolerance: Snowdrops tolerate frost and do well in cool conditions between 30°F and 50°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is ideal for planting.

Snowdrops are among the first perennials to bloom, adding an early splash of white to your landscape.

8. Camellia (Camellia japonica)

Temperature Tolerance: Camellias thrive well in temperatures between 40°F and 70°F, but they are sensitive to frost.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is a good time to plant.

These evergreen shrubs provide rich color during the winter months, making them ideal for maintaining landscape interest.

9. Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Temperature Tolerance: Phlox can tolerate frost and prefers temperatures around 50°F to 75°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Late February is fitting for planting.

Phlox provides stunning blooms that attract butterflies, making them perfect for gardens that aim to support local wildlife.

10. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Temperature Tolerance: Creeping thyme is a hardy perennial that thrives in temperatures ranging from 30°F to 70°F.

Planting Dates:

• Zones 8-9: Early February is suitable for planting.

This low-growing ground cover is drought-resistant and can enhance the beauty of pathways and garden borders.

FAQ

What should I consider before planting in February?

Before planting, assess your hardiness zone, average temperature fluctuations, and specific plants’ tolerance to frost. Check local frost dates and soil conditions as you plan.

Can I start plants indoors in February?

Yes, many gardeners start seeds indoors in February, particularly for warmth-loving plants that will be transplanted once the risk of frost has passed.

How do I prepare my soil for planting?

Preparing your soil involves checking its pH, ensuring it drains well, and amending it with organic matter. Tilling and aerating the soil will promote better root growth and drainage.

What if I miss February planting opportunities?

If you miss February, many plants can be planted in March. Check the suitability and preferences of plants for your area and adjust accordingly.

How do I protect young plants from unexpected frost?

Using row covers, cloths, or frost blankets can protect young plants from unexpected cold snaps, providing them insulation during cold weather.

What can I do to ensure healthy plant growth during February?

Regular watering, mulching, and maintaining proper spacing promote healthy growth. Pay close attention to weather conditions and adjust care as needed.

Are there specific flowers suitable for late February planting?

Yes, many flowers such as pansies, snapdragons, and sweet peas can be planted or sown in late February, depending on your specific location.

February is a month of possibilities for gardeners in zones 8 and 9. With a wide variety of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants to choose from, you’ll be well on your way to creating a vibrant and flourishing garden