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February is an exciting time for gardeners in Zone 7, as the days start to lengthen and the soil begins to warm. Starting flowers from seed indoors now can lead to a vibrant garden by late spring and early summer. Choosing the right flowers to start in February ensures a colorful and diverse garden season.
Why Start Flowers from Seed in February?
Starting flowers from seed in February offers several advantages. It gives you a head start on the growing season, allowing plants to mature indoors before transplanting outdoors. This method can be more economical and provides a wider variety of flowers than buying mature plants from nurseries.
Top Flower Picks for February in Zone 7
- Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis): Pansies are hardy and can be started indoors in February. They come in a rainbow of colors and can tolerate cool temperatures, making them perfect for early spring planting.
- Alyssum (Lobularia maritima): This fragrant flower is easy to grow from seed and attracts pollinators. Start indoors for best results.
- Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus): Known for their delightful scent and colorful blooms, sweet peas should be started early indoors to enjoy a long flowering season.
- Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds are resilient and quick to germinate. Starting them indoors ensures a strong start for summer blooms.
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Also called pot marigold, calendula is easy to grow from seed and adds bright orange and yellow hues to your garden.
Starting Seeds Indoors: Tips and Tricks
To successfully start flowers from seed in February, follow these tips:
- Use quality seed-starting soil: Choose a light, well-draining seed-starting mix for optimal germination.
- Provide adequate light: Place seedlings near south-facing windows or under grow lights to ensure they receive sufficient light.
- Maintain proper temperature: Keep indoor temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for best germination results.
- Water carefully: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent damping-off disease.
- Harden off seedlings: Gradually introduce young plants to outdoor conditions before transplanting after the last frost.
Transplanting Outdoors
Once the danger of frost has passed, typically in late March or early April in Zone 7, you can transplant your seedlings outdoors. Harden them off over a week by gradually increasing their outdoor exposure each day. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil for planting your flowers.
Conclusion
Starting flowers from seed in February in Zone 7 is an excellent way to ensure a vibrant and extended garden season. By selecting the right flowers and following proper starting techniques, you can enjoy a colorful garden filled with blooms from early spring through summer.