Zone 8a Gardeners Plant These Seeds In February To Get A Head Start On Your Spring Garden
- Cultivate Simple Delights
- Nov 1
- 5 min read
February is an exciting time for gardeners in Zone 8a because it's the perfect moment to start sowing seeds indoors to get started on your Spring garden.
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A thriving garden is all about planning let's jump into what to grow.
By starting the right plants at the correct time you can get a head start on growing your best garden yet and with my new beginner gardening planner you can record your entire gardening journey in one place.
When I first started gardening I was always confused on what I should start indoors verses what to plant directly in the ground and trust me knowing this can make a big difference in your garden.
The first thing you want to know about starting your first seeds is that they will require water, light, and ventilation to grow into healthy plants.
The next thing to know about starting seeds indoors is that some plants transplant well, while others don't.
Just know what plants do well with transplanting can save you time and energy when starting your first garden.
The best part of starting your seeds indoors is that you can get a jumpstart on your Spring garden by simply planting these easy to grow garden plants a few weeks in advance.
Why Start Vegetable Garden Seeds Indoors?
Starting seeds indoors allows you to create controlled conditions for growing your first plants, which helps you have a successful first garden.
With this gained confidence you'll likely continue growing more of your own food at home.
Plus you can save a ton of money simply by starting your own plants from seed instead of purchasing mature seedlings from the store.
When you start your seeds indoors you get to extend the growing season, which can only mean one thing.
More delicious fresh food grown by you at home.
For the best investment in purchasing seeds only buy heirloom non-GMO seeds to be able to seed save from your plants making it possible to basically garden for FREE.
Take the guesswork out with this beginner seed kit that has 35 easy to grow vegetables with over 16,000 seeds for growing your own food at home.
In Zone 8a, the last frost date typically occurs around mid April, so if you start seeds in February you can have several seedlings ready for transplanting right after the last frost giving you a significant head start on the growing season.
Best Seeds to Start in February For The Garden
Start Tomatoes Indoors
Tomatoes are a staple for any garden and starting them indoors in February can yield a great harvest.
My favorite tomatoes to grow are "Cherry" tomatoes they grow very easily and produce an abundance of small fresh tomatoes all season.
If you're interested in growing a larger variety you can't go wrong with a "Roma" tomato.
Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots and provide plenty of light aiming for at least 12-16 hours a day if possible.
Keep your grow lights close to your seedlings just a few inches above to encourage strong stems.
When you transplant your tomatoes you can remove the lower leaves and place them in the soil horizontally gently tilting up the head of the plant and covering the rest with soil.
This allows for more roots to grow giving your stronger healthier plants.
Start Peppers Indoors
Peppers benefit from being started indoors because they can be slow growers in the garden.
Varieties such as the 'Bell Pepper' and 'Jalapeño' thrive with adequate warmth.
Because peppers like warmth a heat mat can boost soil temperatures and enhance your germination rates.
Timing is crucial because peppers can take around 60 - 90 days from seed to harvest, so get them started early.
Save time next year by learning how to overwinter your peppers from the garden.
Start Eggplant Indoors
Eggplant is another excellent choice to start indoors because they grow slowly and require high heat conditions to thrive.
Varieties like 'Black Beauty' and 'Ichiban' can be planted in February and ready to go by Spring.
By starting these plants indoors you can avoid common pest issues when you seedlings are at such a critical phase of growth.
Eggplants usually take about 70-80 days to bear fruit making an early start vital for maximizing your harvest.
Make sure to have good ventilation for your seedlings with a gentle fan this will improve the air circulation and help prevent fungal issues plus it encourages your plants to grow strong stems.
Growing Herbs Indoors
Herbs such as basil, parsley, and cilantro can also be started indoors this month.
Not only do they elevate your favorite meals, but they also attract beneficial insects to your garden.
One of my favorite herbs to grow in the garden is cilantro perfect for making homemade soups and salas'.
Parsley and cilantro can take 14 -21 days to germinate.
Use small pots or seed trays and use grow lights to encourage strong healthy plants.
Grow lights should be set just 4 inches above your plants adjusting them as your plants grow, otherwise, your plants will become "leggy" meaning they have a long weak stem.
Tips To Successfully Start Your Seeds Indoors For The Garden
Use Quality Seed Starting Mix: A light well draining mix is vital for seed germination. Avoid dense garden soil, which can hinder seedling growth.
Provide Adequate Light: If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights for at least 8 - 10 hours a day to keep your seedlings strong and healthy.
Maintain Consistent Moisture: Keeping the soil evenly moist, but not overly wet, is crucial. A spray bottle can help you water gently without displacing the seeds. With seedlings, you can also use a watering tray to prevent fungal issues from developing on your plant leaves after your plants have grown a few sets of true leaves.
Thin Seedlings: Once your seedlings develop true leaves, thin them out to prevent overcrowding. This gives each plant the room to grow well.
What Seeds To Start Indoors For The Garden
Starting seeds indoors in February is a smart strategy for Zone 8a gardeners, especially if you are new to gardening.
By planting tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, herbs you position yourself for a vibrant and productive garden.
Just be sure to ensure the right conditions for your seedlings and you’ll be well prepared to enjoy a plentiful harvest with these garden staples.
Keep track of all your gardening plans in one place with this garden planner that allows you to design your dream garden plus track all your plants with seedling, transplant, and garden logs. Make gardening easy this year by getting started off right.
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