It’s extremely satisfying to grow flowers from seed—not to mention it also saves money, as seed packets usually cost less than six-packs of annuals, or potted perennials, and can potentially produce many more flowers.
Planting seeds indoors in February can give you a good head start on having seedlings to transplant in spring. However, it’s important to get the timing of planting right for your growing zone.
For example, in USDA Zone 9, the average last frost date is in February, so you can sow cold hardy seeds outside. In USDA 6, that date is more likely in April, so starting seeds inside in February is your best bet. You’ll have seedlings ready to transplant when it warms up outside.
Some flowers that thrive in summer heat (like cosmos, zinnias, and marigolds) need consistently warm temperatures, and aren’t suitable for early indoor sowing, unless you’re in USDA Zones 7 or above. Most seeds will germinate indoors using grow lights and heat pads, or in a sunny window if there are no cold drafts. We’ve made a list of flower seeds you can start in February that are perfect for Zones 5 and 6, to give you plenty of seedlings to transplant outside for a lush summer garden.
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