Prepping for Spring: Early Garden Planning and Seed Starting Tips

When the days are short and cold, it’s the perfect time to start dreaming of green again. January and February are ideal for planning your spring garden — setting yourself up for a season of growth and success.

1. Review Last Year’s Garden

Think about what worked and what didn’t. Were there crops that underperformed or pests that caused trouble? Use those lessons to plan better this year’s layout and plant choices.

2. Plan and Rotate Crops

Crop rotation helps improve soil health and reduce disease. Sketch a simple map of where each crop will go this year. Make sure heavy feeders like tomatoes or corn rotate with legumes or leafy greens.

3. Start Seeds Indoors

For early vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date. Use quality seed-starting mix, grow lights, and trays to give your plants a strong start.

4. Check Tools and Supplies

Clean and sharpen your tools, test your soil, and make a shopping list for seeds, soil, and fertilizer now — before the rush of spring.

Winter may feel long, but spring will be here before you know it — and a little planning now means a garden that’s ready to thrive when the sun returns.