Introduction January may be the middle of winter, but that doesn’t mean gardeners in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 and 8 have to wait until spring to start planting. With mild winters and occasional cold snaps, this time of year is perfect for sowing certain seeds indoors and even directly in the ground. By planting early, you can get a head start on the growing season and enjoy fresh produce sooner.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, knowing what to plant in January can set you up for a bountiful harvest. In this guide, we’ll cover the best vegetables, herbs, and flowers to start now, along with key planting tips to maximize success.
Vegetables to Plant in January
1. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens thrive in cool temperatures, making January a great time to start them.
- Lettuce – Start indoors or sow in cold frames for an early harvest.
- Spinach – Can be direct-seeded outdoors in well-drained soil.
- Kale – A frost-hardy crop that improves in flavor after cold exposure.
- Mustard Greens – Quick-growing and perfect for salads and stir-fries.
2. Root Vegetables
Certain root crops can be direct-sown in the garden now.
- Carrots – Choose cold-resistant varieties for early sowing.
- Radishes – One of the fastest-growing winter crops, ready in as little as 30 days.
- Turnips – Thrives in cool weather and grows quickly.
- Onions – Start from sets or seeds to ensure a continuous supply later.
3. Peas
- Sugar Snap & Shelling Peas – These can be direct-seeded as soon as the soil is workable. Soaking seeds overnight before planting can help with germination.
4. Brassicas
These cold-hardy crops should be started indoors under grow lights.
- Broccoli – Requires about 6–8 weeks before transplanting.
- Cabbage – A great candidate for early indoor sowing.
- Cauliflower – Prefers cooler temperatures for better head formation.
Herbs to Start in January
Many herbs can be started indoors in January, ready to be transplanted outdoors as temperatures warm.
1. Parsley
- Slow to germinate but thrives in cooler temperatures.
2. Cilantro
- Prefers cool conditions and can be grown in containers or garden beds.
3. Chives
- Hardy and perfect for windowsill gardening.
4. Dill
- Start indoors in biodegradable pots to prevent root disturbance.
Flowers to Start in January
Adding flowers to your garden in early spring ensures a burst of color and pollinator attraction.
1. Pansies & Violas
- Cold-tolerant and ideal for winter and early spring planting.
2. Snapdragons
- Prefers cooler temperatures and can be started indoors for transplanting.
3. Sweet Peas
- Direct sow these fragrant flowers for a beautiful spring display.
4. Echinacea (Coneflower)
- Beneficial for pollinators and can be started indoors now.
Key Tips for Planting in January
- Use Cold Frames & Row Covers
- Protect delicate seedlings from frost and sudden temperature drops.
- Start Seeds Indoors
- Use grow lights or a sunny windowsill to give seedlings a strong start.
- Improve Soil Readiness
- Work in compost or organic matter to prepare beds for planting.
- Water Wisely
- Winter rains may reduce watering needs, but keep an eye on soil moisture levels.
- Monitor Temperature Fluctuations
- Be prepared to cover plants if unexpected frost hits.
Conclusion
Planting in January allows gardeners in Zones 7 and 8 to get ahead of the season while making the most of cooler temperatures. Whether starting seeds indoors or direct-sowing hardy crops, now is the time to begin planning for a productive garden.
🌿 What are you planting this January? Drop a comment below! 👇
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