February Growing Guide: Late winter prep for a thriving spring garden

February is a powerful transition month—cooler days linger, but spring growth is right around the corner. For gardeners growing edible, fruiting, and medicinal plants (especially in subtropical and mild-winter climates), what you do now sets the tone for the entire season ahead.

🌿 What to Plant in February

February is ideal for getting a head start—either indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate.

Warm-season crops (start indoors or in protected spaces):

Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant
Basil, Thai basil, lemongrass
Turmeric, ginger, galangal
Passionfruit, papaya, moringa (in warm zones)

Cool-season & cold-tolerant edibles (direct sow in mild climates):

Spinach, kale, arugula
Cilantro, parsley, dill
Peas and fava beans
Calendula, chamomile, lemon balm

Tip: If your soil is still cool, focus on indoor starts or containers you can move as needed.

🌳 Fruit Trees & Perennials: What to Do Now

This is a key month for long-term success with trees and perennial plants.

Prune deciduous fruit trees (figs, mulberries, pomegranates) before spring growth kicks in
Plant bare-root or dormant trees while stress is minimal
Top-dress with compost to gently feed soil biology
Mulch deeply to protect roots and retain moisture
Hold off on heavy fertilizing until consistent warmth returns

❄️ Cold Protection Still Matters

Even if spring feels close, surprise cold snaps can happen.

Keep frost cloths or sheets handy
Water soil before cold nights (moist soil holds warmth better)
Protect young tropicals and newly planted trees
Containers can be moved into greenhouses, garages, or covered patios overnight

🌱 Soil & Garden Prep

Healthy soil now = stronger plants later.

Refresh beds with compost or worm castings
Check drainage after winter rains
Clean up fallen leaves and debris (compost what you can)
Start planning spring layouts for spacing and sun exposure

🐝 Garden Rhythm & Observation

February is also about slowing down and paying attention.

Watch where the sun is shifting
Note which plants handled winter best
Plan companion plantings and pollinator support
Start a garden journal for spring goals

🌞 Looking Ahead

March brings rapid growth, new arrivals, and planting momentum. February is your chance to prepare—thoughtfully, gently, and with intention.

If you’re dreaming of a food forest, edible landscape, or expanding your rare plant collection, now is the perfect time to get ready 🌿

Explore what’s growing at Sow Exotic and get your garden spring-ready.