February is an ideal time to chit or start early potatoes indoors in pots or trays, giving them a head start before planting outside. 
Helena Mottram 11/02/2026 09:00 4 min
Even though the ground can still be cold and occasionally frozen, February is ideal for preparing the garden and starting seeds under cover. This is the time to plan your vegetable patch, improve soil quality, and ensure your early crops have every advantage. By taking small steps now, gardeners can enjoy an earlier harvest and healthier plants throughout the year.
Starting vegetables early
Certain hardy vegetables can be sown outdoors in February, especially if you provide some frost protection. Broad beans are perfect for this, as they tolerate chilly conditions and can be sown directly into well-draining soil. Onion sets and shallots can also be planted now, giving them plenty of time to establish roots before the main growing season.
For gardeners with a greenhouse, cold frame, or a warm windowsill, it’s an excellent month to start lettuce, spinach, and spring onions from seed. These fast-growing vegetables can be ready to transplant or harvest in just a few weeks, providing an early supply of fresh, home-grown produce.
Onion sets can be planted now in well-drained soil, allowing them to establish strong roots for a healthy summer harvest.
If you want an early potato crop, February is a great time to chit potatoes indoors in pots or trays. Once the frosts have passed, they can be moved outside, giving you a harvest several weeks ahead of outdoor-sown crops.
Herbs for early growth
Herbs are also ideal for sowing or propagating in February. Chives, parsley, and coriander can be started indoors in small pots or trays. Not only do they benefit from early sowing, but having herbs on a windowsill also brightens the kitchen during a dull winter month.
Other hardy herbs, such as thyme and oregano, can be encouraged to grow indoors or in sheltered spots outside. By giving herbs a head start now, you ensure they are strong enough to flourish once warmer weather arrives.
Extra tips for February gardening
Even if the soil is too cold to plant outdoors, February is perfect for clearing beds, adding compost, and checking tools and equipment. Protecting early seedlings with fleece, cloches, or cold frames will help them survive occasional frosts. Gradually acclimatising indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting also improves their chances of success.
By paying attention to vegetables and herbs this February, gardeners can make the most of the month, setting themselves up for a productive and enjoyable growing season. Early preparation now pays off in healthy plants and an early, abundant harvest.
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