01/31/2026
February is prime time for starting warm-season crops indoors and getting cool-season transplants ready for early spring gardens. Starting seeds now under grow lights or in a heated greenhouse gives plants the head start they need before last frost dates across most U.S. regions.
- Tomatoes β start indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date, needs consistent warmth (70-75Β°F) and 12-14 hours of light daily
- Peppers β start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, germination requires warm soil (80Β°F+) and strong light to prevent legginess
- Eggplant π β start indoors 8-10 weeks before transplant time, needs heat and bright light for steady growth
- Broccoli π₯¦ β start indoors 4-6 weeks before setting out in early spring, tolerates cooler indoor temps (60-70Β°F)
- Cabbage β start indoors for early harvests in cool regions, ready to transplant when soil is workable
- Cauliflower β start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost, needs steady temps and adequate light for tight heads
- Lettuce β start indoors or under cover for early transplants, cool-season crop that handles light frost after hardening off
- Onions β start from seed indoors for long-season varieties, slow grower that needs 10-12 weeks before transplant
- Kale β start indoors 4-6 weeks before spring planting, cold-hardy crop that establishes well from transplants