Seeds to Start Indoors Right Now (Late Winter)

Winter dragging on? Channel that energy into seed starting. Many crops can be begun 6–8 weeks before your last frost date, giving you robust transplants come spring.

Start Now (February–Early March)

Cool-season crops tolerate transplanting and cooler soils:

• Spinach, chard, kale
• Cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts
• Lettuce, herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill)
• Tomatoes (for early greenhouse/high-tunnel transplant)

Start Late February–March

Warm-season crops need warmer soil; start 4–6 weeks before transplant:

• Cucumbers, squash, zucchini
• Melons

Keys to Success

• Use a seed-starting mix, not garden soil.
• Provide 12–16 hours of light (LED shop lights work).
• Keep soil moist but not soggy; bottom-water to avoid damping off.
• Harden off before transplanting (see Day 13 article).

Check a local planting calendar for exact dates. A seed catalog and a few trays turn winter gloom into spring anticipation.