February signifies a pivotal point in the gardening calendar across the UK. Although winter’s chill lingers, the days gradually lengthen, presenting a prime opportunity for avid gardeners to prepare their plots and sow the seeds of future blooms and bountiful harvests.

In this guide, we’ll explore an array of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants that are well-suited for planting during this month, complete with specific details on temperature tolerances, planting methods, and ideal conditions based on regional climates.

Vegetables to Plant in February

1. Broad Beans (Vicia faba)

Broad beans are among the hardiest vegetables and can be sown directly into the ground in February. They thrive in cold soil and can endure frosts, making them suitable for most of the UK. Ideal soil temperatures for germination range between 5°C and 10°C. They are typically planted 2 inches deep and around 15 cm apart in rows spaced at least 60 cm apart.

2. Onions (Allium cepa)

Onions can be grown from sets or seeds. In February, it’s advisable to use onion sets, as they establish more readily. Plant them in well-drained, fertile soil, ensuring they are about 2.5 cm deep and spaced around 10 cm apart. Regions such as the south of England can start earlier, while northern areas should wait until mid-February due to colder ground temperatures.

3. Peas (Pisum sativum)

Peas can be sown directly into the ground once the soil is workable—usually in late February in milder regions. They prefer temperatures above 5°C. Plant them about 5 cm deep and space them 5-8 cm apart. For northern areas, it’s generally safer to delay sowing until early March to avoid frost damage.

4. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Spinach is a fast-growing leafy green that can be sown in February. It thrives in cooler temperatures but should not be planted until the risk of heavy frost has passed. Ideal soil temperatures for germination range from 5°C to 20°C. Sow seeds thinly, around 2 cm deep and 30 cm apart.

5. Carrots (Daucus carota)

Carrots can be sown outdoors in February, especially in milder regions. The best soil temperature for carrot seeds to germinate is around 7°C. Space the seeds about 2-3 cm apart in drills that are 30 cm apart. The key to success with carrots is ensuring the soil is finely tilled and free from large clumps or stones.

6. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Lettuce can be sown in a greenhouse or cold frame during February. Varieties such as ‘Butterhead’ and ‘Cos’ can cope with cooler conditions. For outdoor sowing, wait until later in the month when temperatures rise above 5°C. Sow seeds in shallow drills, about 1 cm deep, and thin as necessary.

7. Asian Greens (Brassica rapa var. perviridis)

Asian greens, including pak choi and mizuna, can be planted in February. They are fast-growing and thrive in cooler conditions. Sow seeds about 1 cm deep and 20 cm apart in rows spaced 30 cm apart. They can withstand light frost, making them suitable for early sowing.

8. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Radishes are great for those looking for a quick crop. They can be sown in either the greenhouse or directly outdoors in late February. They prefer cooler temperatures and can handle light frosts. Sow seeds about 1-2 cm deep, spaced about 5 cm apart in rows 20 cm apart.

9. Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes)

Kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that can withstand some frost. It prefers cooler temperatures for optimal growth. Sow seeds in trays indoors or directly outdoors in February, about 2-3 cm deep with spacing of 10 cm between plants.

10. Turnips (Brassica rapa)

Turnips are cold-hardy and can be sown in late February in milder regions. These root vegetables thrive in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Plant seeds about 1-2 cm deep, with spacing of 30 cm in rows.

Flowers to Plant in February

1. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)

Sweet peas can be sown indoors in pots during February. They benefit from an early start but should be planted out after the last frost. Ideal soil temperatures are around 10°C to 15°C for germination. Transplant seedlings outdoors in late April when they have reached a height of about 10 cm.

2. Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis)

Pansies can be planted in February, either directly into the garden or in pots. These resilient flowers can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C. Plant them 20 cm apart and provide protection from harsh winds to ensure sturdy growth.

3. Primroses (Primula vulgaris)

Primroses can be planted as soon as the ground is not frozen. They can survive in temperatures down to -10°C and thrive in partial shade. Plant them in clusters, spacing them 15 cm apart, in rich, well-draining soil.

4. Wallflowers (Erysimum cheiri)

Wallflowers can be planted in February for a vibrant spring display. They prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate light frosts. Sow seeds in trays or direct into the soil around 1 cm deep, thinning to about 30 cm apart once established.

5. Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis sylvatica)

Forget-me-nots can be sown directly into the ground. They thrive in cooler conditions and will flower in the spring. Sow seeds on the surface or very lightly covered in a well-drained, moist area. They like partial shade and can be planted in clusters.

6. Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea)

Foxgloves can be sown in February, with preference for cooler conditions which encourages stronger seedlings. Sow seeds in trays with good drainage and lightly cover them with compost. Transplant them outdoors in late April when they have grown sufficiently.

7. Delphiniums (Delphinium spp.)

Delphiniums are ideal for planting in early spring. Sow seeds indoors or in a greenhouse in February, where they can be started in cooler temperatures around 10°C. Once they are large enough to handle, they can be transferred outdoors in April.

8. Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus)

Sweet William can be sown in February for a stunning spring show. They are hardy and can tolerate frost. Sow seeds about 1 cm deep and thin them to 25 cm in between plants once established.

9. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula, or pot marigold, can be sown in February for a colorful spring display. They can handle frost and prefer soil temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. Sow seeds about 0.5 cm deep with spacing of 20 cm apart.

10. Campanula (Campanula spp.)

Campanula can be sown in February, and they thrive in cooler temperatures. These charming blue or purple bell-shaped flowers can be sown in seed trays and later transplanted outdoors. Sow seeds approximately 1 cm deep and maintain spacing of 30 cm apart.

Herbs to Plant in February

1. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives are a robust herb that can be sown indoors in February. They prefer well-draining soil and can withstand light frosts. Sow seeds about 0.5 cm deep and thin the seedlings to 20 cm apart once they reach 10 cm.

2. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Parsley seeds can be sown indoors in February for an early start. They thrive in cooler temperatures, germinating best at around 10°C. Plant seeds 0.5 cm deep in seed trays or pots, and keep them moist until seeds germinate.

3. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Coriander is a robust herb that can be sown outdoors in late February. It prefers cooler conditions with soil temperatures around 10°C. Sow seeds about 1 cm deep, ensuring they are spaced at least 20 cm apart in rows.

4. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill can be started indoors in February. It requires temperatures around 10°C to germinate effectively. Sow seeds about 1-2 cm deep in pots and thin them to a spacing of 20 cm between plants when transplanting.

5. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme can be sown early in February indoors and later transplanted. It prefers well-drained, poor soil and does not thrive in excessive moisture. Sow seeds approximately 0.5 cm deep and thin to 25-30 cm apart once established.

6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano can be seeded indoors in February. It enjoys warm temperatures—around 20°C. Sow seeds about 0.5 cm deep in seed trays, watching for germination after about two weeks.

7. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil can be started indoors in February in a warm spot or greenhouse. It dislikes cold conditions, thriving between 18°C and 30°C. Sow seeds thinly, and once seedlings reach 10 cm, they can be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.

8. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary can be grown from cuttings taken in February or sown from seed. It prefers poor, well-drained soil and likes to be pot-bound. Trials should start indoors until the seedlings have several sets of true leaves.

9. Mint (Mentha spp.)

Mint can be planted indoors or outdoors in pots in February. It grows rapidly, and roots can spread vigorously, so it is best grown in containers. Mint prefers a cooler environment and thrives in partial shade.

10. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel can be sown directly outdoors in late February, particularly in the southern parts of the UK. It prefers slightly warmer soil, ideally at around 10°C. Sow seeds about 1-2 cm deep, spacing them 30 cm apart.

Landscape Plants to Plant in February

1. Bare-Root Roses (Rosa spp.)

February is an excellent time for planting bare-root roses as they are dormant. These hardy shrubs thrive in various climates and can withstand temperatures below freezing. Make sure to soak the roots in water before planting them in well-drained, fertile soil.

2. Hedges (Various species)

Feburary provides the perfect window to plant bare-root hedging. Species such as hawthorn and hornbeam establish well when planted as dormant bare-root plants. Plant them 30-60 cm apart, depending on the desired density of the hedge.

3. Perennial Plants (Various species)

Perennial plants can also be sown in February under the right conditions. They typically prefer milder areas or indoor sowing until they are ready to be transferred outdoors in spring. Popular choices include echinacea and rudbeckia.

4. Trees (Various species)

Bare-root trees can be planted in February, including options like silver birch and field maple. Select a well-drained location, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, and place the tree at its original depth to ensure successful establishment.

5. Shrub Varieties (Various species)

Many deciduous shrubs can be planted bare-rooted in February. Options like forsythia and willow will flourish once planted. Aim to create holes that allow the roots to spread out naturally without bending or crowding.

6. Sweet Chestnut Trees (Castanea sativa)

Sweet chestnut trees can be planted in February. These towering trees will require ample space. They thrive in well-drained soil and can handle a range of conditions, making them a fantastic addition to larger landscapes.

7. Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris)

Lilacs can also be planted as bare-root plants during February. They prefer well-draining soil in a sunny location and provide beautiful blooms in late spring.

8. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberry is an adaptable, fast-growing shrub that can be planted now. It can tolerate various soils, including clay, and even some drought conditions once established.

9. Ornamental Grasses (Various species)

Ornamental grasses such as miscanthus and pampas grass can be established in February. These plants offer textural diversity and can thrive in various conditions, providing visual interest in the landscape.

10. Fruit Trees and Bushes (Various species)

This is a suitable time to plant bare-root fruit trees such as apple and pear or berry bushes like raspberries and blackcurrants. Ensure they have enough space to mature and are placed in a sheltered, sunny spot for the best production.

Conclusion

February may feel like a quiet period in the garden, but it’s an ideal time to start planting a variety of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants. By choosing the right species based on regional conditions, soil temperatures, and frost resistance, gardeners across the UK can set the stage for a vibrant and productive growing season. Whether it’s the promise of fresh-picked vegetables, a colorful floral landscape, aromatic herbs, or a beautiful garden backdrop, February is truly the month to cultivate new beginnings in your garden.