Although February can still be chilly, it’s an important time to start preparing for the growing season. With temperatures slowly rising and the days getting longer, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your garden is ready for spring.

1. Start Seeds Indoors

February is a great time to begin sowing seeds indoors, especially for crops that need a longer growing season. Consider sowing:

• Tomatoes
• Peppers & Chilli’s
• Aubergines (Eggplants)
• Herbs like Basil, Parsley, and Oregano

Use a sunny windowsill or a heated propagator to encourage strong, healthy seedlings. Keep them in a warm spot with plenty of light.

2. Plan & Prepare Raised Beds

Now is the time to plan for the upcoming season. Prepare your raised beds by:

• Adding compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
• Inspecting and repairing raised beds or garden structures like trellises and supports.
• Clearing away any winter debris to create space for fresh growth.

These preparations will help ensure your garden is ready to go once the temperatures rise.

3. Start Chitting Potatoes

While it’s too early to plant potatoes outdoors, now is the time to start chitting early varieties. Place seed potatoes in a cool, light spot to allow them to sprout. This will give them a head start, and they can be planted outdoors once the soil is workable, usually in March or April.

4. Prepare for Early Outdoor Planting (But Not Yet!)

Although the weather is still cold, it’s worth thinking ahead to crops you can plant later in the season. For now, focus on preparing your outdoor space:

• Protect your soil by covering bare patches with a layer of mulch or compost.
• Set up cloches or cold frames if you plan to grow early season crops, such as broad beans or peas, later on.

5. Start Planning Succession Planting

To ensure a continuous harvest, start planning when to sow your crops for a staggered planting throughout the season. Consider creating a planting calendar and make note of when to plant for each type of crop.

By taking these early steps, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running once the weather warms up. Although it’s still a bit too early to plant outdoors in February, your preparations now will ensure a thriving garden come spring. Happy gardening!