February in USDA Zone 8 ushers in a critical gardening period, as the landscape begins to shake off the chill of winter and gears up for spring. With mild temperatures generally ranging from 30°F to 60°F, gardeners can start sowing seeds and planting a wealth of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll thoroughly explore each category, focusing on specific plants ideal for planting in February.
Vegetables to Plant in February
1. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Temperature Tolerance: Lettuce thrives in cool weather, preferring temperatures between 45°F and 65°F. It can withstand light frosts.
Planting Dates: Late January to mid-February for transplants, while direct sowing can begin as early as mid-February.
Details: This leafy green is a staple in many gardens due to its quick growth cycle, typically reaching maturity in just 30 days. It can be sown every few weeks for continuous harvests throughout the spring. Lettuce prefers well-drained soil with high organic content, and it benefits from regular watering to keep the leaves crisp and tender.
2. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Temperature Tolerance: Highly tolerant of cold, spinach can survive temperatures as low as 20°F.
Planting Dates: Seeds should be sown directly in the garden from early February.
Details: Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that grows well in cool soil conditions. Planting spinach in February allows for a quick harvest before warmer weather can cause the plants to bolt. Spinach seeds germinate best in soil temperatures around 50°F. This adaptable green grows best in full sun and can benefit from a light fabric cover in case of unexpected frosts.
3. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica)
Temperature Tolerance: Kale is extremely hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
Planting Dates: Late January to early February is optimal for planting.
Details: Known for its robust flavor and nutritional benefits, kale is often referred to as a “superfood.” This leafy green should be grown in well-draining soil and prefers full sun. Kale can be harvesting by cutting the outer leaves, allowing the center to continue producing. Its taste often improves with cooler temperatures, making it an ideal plant for early spring gardening.
4. Carrots (Daucus carota)
Temperature Tolerance: Carrots can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F; they germinate best in temperatures between 50°F and 85°F.
Planting Dates: Mid-February is ideal, but a direct sow can begin as early as late January.
Details: Carrots are root vegetables that require loose, well-drained soil to grow straight and long. Sowing them in February means they can be ready for harvest in late spring to early summer, depending on the variety. Regular watering is crucial to avoid woody or bitter-tasting roots. Thin seedlings to ensure optimal spacing, allowing enough room for the carrots to grow properly.
5. Beets (Beta vulgaris)
Temperature Tolerance: Beets can withstand light frost and prefer temperatures between 50°F and 85°F.
Planting Dates: Direct sow seeds in late February.
Details: Beets offer a dual harvest: both the greens and the roots are edible. Similar to carrots, they need well-drained soil, and their seeds should be sown about 1/2 inch deep. They germinate best when the soil temperature is around 60°F. Regular watering helps maintain soil moisture, especially during the germination phase.
6. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)
Temperature Tolerance: Radishes are resilient and can tolerate temperatures down to 30°F.
Planting Dates: Early February is perfect for direct sowing.
Details: Known for their rapid growth, radishes can be ready for harvest in about three weeks. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, ideally with plenty of organic matter. Useful for succession planting, you can continuously sow radishes every couple of weeks for a consistent supply throughout the spring. They can also help break up compact soil, benefiting nearby plants.
7. Onions (Allium cepa)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to about 15°F, onions can handle cold temperatures if they have already established roots.
Planting Dates: Sets can be planted in February, ideally around mid-month.
Details: Onions can be grown from seeds, sets, or transplants. When planting onion sets, submerge them about an inch deep, with the pointed end facing up. Onions prefer full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Providing adequate water is critical, especially as the bulbs begin to form.
8. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Temperature Tolerance: Garlic is very hardy and can survive extreme lows; it’s typically planted in the fall, but can adapt when mulched and planted in February.
Planting Dates: If not planted in fall, garlic cloves can be planted in early February.
Details: Garlic thrives in well-drained soil; choose individual cloves from larger bulbs for optimal yield. Plant cloves about 2 inches deep and space them 6 inches apart. Regular watering is essential until the plants mature. A good mulch layer can help protect the cloves from extreme cold and weed growth.
9. Collard Greens (Brassica oleracea var. viridis)
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerates mild frost; optimal growing temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F.
Planting Dates: Early February is suitable for direct sowing.
Details: Collard greens are robust plants that thrive in cooler months, allowing for extended harvests. They need rich soil and regular watering, especially in dry spells. Harvesting of outer leaves encourages continued growth from the center, ensuring a long supply of greens.
10. Peas (Pisum sativum)
Temperature Tolerance: Peas prefer cooler climates and can handle light frosts well.
Planting Dates: Early to mid-February for direct sowing.
Details: Peas should be sown as soon as the soil can be worked, as they do well in cool soils. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and provide trellising for support as they grow. Peas are a nitrogen-fixing plant, enhancing soil health for other crops planted later in the season.
Flowers to Plant in February
1. Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis)
Temperature Tolerance: Survives temperatures down to 25°F, making them excellent for early spring gardens.
Planting Dates: Late January into February is ideal for planting.
Details: Pansies are hardy annuals that produce vibrant flowers in various colors. They thrive in cool weather, making them perfect for planting between late winter and early spring. Pansies enjoy well-drained soil and a full sun to partial shade environment. To promote bushier growth, pinching back spent blooms is advisable.
2. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Temperature Tolerance: Snapdragons are resilient plants that can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late January, then transplant outdoors by mid-February.
Details: These unique flowers produce upright spikes adorned with colorful blooms and are excellent for adding height and variety to garden displays. They prefer sunny spots with well-drained soil. Regular deadheading can promote extended blooming.
3. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Temperature Tolerance: Can withstand light frost and thrives between 50°F to 70°F.
Planting Dates: Direct sow seeds in late February.
Details: Known for their bright orange and yellow blooms, calendulas can add a splash of color in the garden. They’re not only beautiful but also edible, making them versatile for culinary use. They attract beneficial insects and can bloom throughout spring and early summer.
4. Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: These flowers can handle light frosts and prefer cooler temperatures for best performance.
Planting Dates: Sow seeds indoors in late January or early February for later transplanting.
Details: Often referred to as “pinks” for their unique, frilled flower edges, dianthus offers a delightful fragrance. They attract pollinators and thrive in full sun, making them excellent for cottage gardens or borders.
5. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Temperature Tolerance: Sweet peas are adapted to cooler weather and can tolerate light frost.
Planting Dates: Plant seeds in late February or as soon as the soil can be worked.
Details: Known for their sweet fragrance, sweet peas climb on supports and produce lovely flowers in multiple shades. They thrive best in nutrient-rich soil and full sunlight. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
6. Primrose (Primula spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Primroses thrive in cool conditions and can survive frost.
Planting Dates: Plant young plants in mid to late February.
Details: These perennials bloom early, providing vibrant color even in late winter. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and partial to full shade environments. Regular watering helps promote healthy blooms, and they can self-seed to provide flowers in subsequent seasons.
7. Icelandic Poppies (Papaver nudicaule)
Temperature Tolerance: Can survive light frost, making them suitable for early spring gardens.
Planting Dates: Sow directly in late February.
Details: Icelandic poppies are known for their delicate, tissue-like petals and striking colors. They prefer well-drained soil and sunny locations. Once established, they require minimal care and produce a long-lasting floral display.
8. Larkspur (Consolida ajacis)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to light frost; thrives in cooler spring temperatures.
Planting Dates: Direct sow in late February.
Details: Larkspur produces tall spikes adorned with blue, purple, and white flowers. They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. They can be grown as annuals or biennials depending on the variety, making them a versatile addition to any garden.
9. Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerates cool weather and mild frosts.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late January for transplanting in February.
Details: Foxgloves are known for their stunning tall spikes adorned with bell-shaped flowers that come in various colors. They prefer partial shade and well-drained, fertile soil. These biennials often reseed themselves, providing blooms for years to come.
10. Johnny Jump-Ups (Viola spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Naturally frost-tolerant, providing blooms through cooler weather conditions.
Planting Dates: Mid-February for direct sowing or transplanting.
Details: Known for their cheerful faces and vibrant colors, Johnny Jump-Ups thrive in borders, containers, or pathways. They produce charming flowers that are edible and can be scattered throughout the garden for a natural look.
Herbs to Plant in February
1. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy, tolerating light frost while preferring cooler environments.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late January or direct sow in late February.
Details: Parsley is a biannual herb that is often grown as an annual. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, this versatile herb can enhance a variety of dishes. It benefits from damp soil and consistent watering, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Harvesting can occur as needed by snipping off outer leaves.
2. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in cooler conditions, resistant to light frost.
Planting Dates: Direct sow seeds in mid-February.
Details: Cilantro is fast-growing, allowing for multiple harvests within the growing season. It prefers well-draining soil and benefits from regular moisture. The leaves can be harvested as needed, while seeds (coriander) can be collected once they mature.
3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy and can withstand light frost.
Planting Dates: Plant divisions or seeds in late February.
Details: Chives are perennial herbs that add a mild onion flavor to dishes. They thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, and they can be used fresh or preserved by drying.
4. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Temperature Tolerance: Cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to 20°F.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late January or direct sow in late February.
Details: Thyme is an aromatic perennial herb that grows well in drought conditions, making it low maintenance. It requires well-drained soil and full sun. It is often used in Mediterranean cuisine and can be harvested continuously throughout the season.
5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers warm weather and must not be exposed to frost.
Planting Dates: Start indoors in late February to transplant after the last frost.
Details: Basil is a sensitive herb that is commonly used in Italian and Thai cuisines. A sunny, warm location with rich, moist soil is essential for its growth. Basil can be harvested continually, rewarding gardeners with fresh leaves throughout the growing season.
6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy and can survive colder conditions, preferring full sun.
Planting Dates: Sow seeds indoors in late February.
Details: Oregano is a perennial that adds flavor to many dishes, particularly Mediterranean cuisine. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Pruning the flowers encourages leaf growth, allowing for an abundant harvest.
7. Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers cooler temperatures; can survive light frost.
Planting Dates: Direct sow seeds in mid to late February.
Details: Dill is known for its feathery foliage and sweet aroma. It enhances dishes, especially pickles, and attracts beneficial insects, making it an excellent companion plant in the garden. It prefers well-draining soil and sunlight.
8. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Very hardy and thrives in various conditions, though prefers some shade in hot summers.
Planting Dates: Plant divisions or seeds in late February.
Details: Mint spreads rapidly, so planting in containers or designated areas is recommended. It thrives in rich, moist soil and is highly aromatic, often used in cooking and beverages. Regular trimming encourages bushy growth and prevents flowering.
9. Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
Temperature Tolerance: Best grown in cooler conditions but can adapt to warmer climates after frost.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late February to transplant later in spring.
Details: Tarragon is a perennial herb recognized for its culinary value, particularly in French cuisine. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and can be harvested at various times. Its unique flavor profile enhances sauces and dressings.
10. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Temperature Tolerance: Best cultivated in cooler temperatures; can be frost-sensitive when young.
Planting Dates: Sow seeds directly in the ground in late February.
Details: Fennel is known for its anise-flavored bulb and feathery leaves. It prefers full sun and well-detained soil, requiring consistent moisture. The plant can be harvested for both its bulbs and fronds, offering versatility in the kitchen.
Landscape Plants to Plant in February
1. Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy down to 10°F, depending on the variety.
Planting Dates: Best to plant in late February.
Details: Azaleas are a popular choice for colorful spring blooms, providing a burst of vibrancy. They thrive in acidic, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade to full sun. Proper mulching will keep the soil moist while preventing weed growth.
2. Camellias (Camellia spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy in milder winters; generally resistant to temperatures as low as 15°F.
Planting Dates: Mid to late February is optimal for transplanting.
Details: Known for their glossy foliage and abundant blooms, camellias add elegance to gardens. They prefer acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade. Regular watering is essential during dry spells, especially during their first year of establishment.
3. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy and can survive frost; blooms often from winter into spring.
Planting Dates: Plant bare roots in late February.
Details: Hellebores are treasured for their early spring blooms, often appearing while snow is still on the ground. They prefer partial to full shade and thrive in rich, well-drained soil. Once established, they require minimal care and can spread over time.
4. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
Temperature Tolerance: Generally hardy in Zone 8, with some varieties tolerating colder conditions.
Planting Dates: Transplant in late February.
Details: Japanese maples add structure and elegance to the landscape, with their striking leaf shapes and colors. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. Regular watering is important during dry spells, and some varieties may benefit from protection from strong afternoon sun.
5. Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to about 10°F or lower.
Planting Dates: Ideal for planting in late February.
Details: Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs that provide a year-round structure in the garden. They tolerate shearing, making them perfect for formal hedges or topiaries. They prefer well-drained soil and regular watering, particularly in the establishment phase.
6. Lantana (Lantana camara)
Temperature Tolerance: Sensitive to frost; best planted unless the danger of frost has passed.
Planting Dates: Start seeds indoors in late January; transplant recommended after frost danger has passed.
Details: Lantana is a vigorous flowering plant known for its vibrant colors and ability to attract butterflies. It thrives in well-drained soils, preferably in full sun. Lantana is drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance option.
7. Barberry (Berberis spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerates temperatures as low as 0°F depending on the variety.
Planting Dates: Plant in late February.
Details: Barberries are hardy shrubs known for their vibrant foliage and thorny stems. They provide excellent color throughout the seasons and can serve effectively as a low hedge. Barberry prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
8. Sasanqua Camellia (Camellia sasanqua)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to about 10°F or lower.
Planting Dates: Ideal for planting in late February.
Details: This variety of camellia blooms earlier in the season and offers a lovely display of color. They thrive in well-drained, acidic soil and partial shade, providing a vibrant color in late winter. They are hardy and low maintenance once established.
9. Holly (Ilex spp.)
Temperature Tolerance: Generally hardy, thriving in a variety of conditions.
Planting Dates: Best to plant in February.
Details: Hollies are evergreen shrubs or trees that provide year-round structure and seasonal interest with their berries. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Pruning after planting helps shape them and encourages healthy growth.
10. Dwarf Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca ‘Conica’)
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to about -40°F, adapting well to various conditions.
Planting Dates: Plant in late February for optimal health.
Details: This compact conifer adds a touch of evergreen elegance to the garden. It requires well-drained soil and benefits from a sunny location. Dwarf Alberta spruce is perfect for small spaces and containers.
February marks the beginning of a dynamic season in the garden of Zone 8. Gardeners can benefit from getting hands-on with seeds and plantings to maximize yields and blooms. By understanding the unique requirements and benefits each of these plants offers, you will be prepared to cultivate a vibrant and productive garden. Embrace the lush possibilities February has to offer, and enjoy the joy of watching your garden grow!
