As winter hangs on deeply in much of the United States, and February stares at us directly, just around the corner, the answer is always…buy seeds!
I would argue that buying seeds is one of the best things we can do. It helps us drive away cabin fever and lets us dream of what will be. When the sun returns, it’s almost warm outside. It gives us time to plan what we will grow this coming year.
A post we wrote on buying seeds to check out.
To keep from going stir-crazy, you can also stock up on seed starter pots and trays, make your potting mix, and set up the area where you will start seeds (be it inside or in a greenhouse). If you use grow lights, ensure they work (so you have time to budget and order new ones). And order your fertilizer, etc., that you might need in late winter/early spring. If you have a greenhouse, this is the time to do a deep clean. Toss cracked pots, sweep out, and tidy the greenhouse up. It’s warm there when it is daylight, so enjoy it!
Puttering helps one feel like they are getting ready, even if the actual seeding time is still 1 to 2 months away.
It is—that excitement when you open a package from the mailbox and see nasturtiums, peas, and tomatoes—all those colorful packets.
My first seeds from Baker Creeks Seeds will arrive in a few days. I will slowly add more from other companies. I know I have time, and there is no rush, but I might as well get going, no?
You can start the first seeds in a month. These are cold-weather crops that can handle a bit of cold, especially if you have a greenhouse or frost tunnels outside (that said, your ground isn’t frozen solid). I call it Fake Spring planting when we get that hint of warmth right before it gets cold again, often in February. In the PNW, this is very common. In the rest of the US, where everything is frozen, it may be awhile.
But for now, open your paper catalogs, go online, or stand around in the local feed/hardware store and daydream. Think about the fun you will have in the coming months. Seeds are relatively inexpensive, so even if you overbuy, or only use 5 seeds in a packet, it is affordable.
And…buy that crazy plant you always wanted to try. It might cost you $3, and if you fail at it? Not a big loss. But chances are, you will be successful and might become an expert at it. That was how I became so adept at growing heirloom alpine strawberries.
My last piece of advice is to buy the best brands. Don’t just buy it because a brand is the cheapest. If seeds are from your region, they will grow most often, as they have been bred for your climate. Look for heirloom types that you can save seeds from later in the year. I usually buy 10 to 12 brands over the winter to get varieties I know and trust will grow well. Some are well-known; others are tiny growers who I found online.
Let us not forget that knowing how to garden and grow food is a life skill. It pays off with a delicious summer and fall. If you believe this year will lead to higher produce cost, because of tariffs, from imported produce, you need to get planning. The more you grow, the less you will spend in stores in 6 months time. And frankly, relying less on imported goods is a solid thing to do. Then, you don’t need to worry about crop failures in Mexico or Peru, should they occur (and yes, it happens every few years).
~Sarah