What Should You Plant in Texas This February?

AvatarByKendrik Ohara Plants

As the chill of winter begins to fade and the first signs of spring emerge, February marks a pivotal time for gardeners in Texas. This month serves as a bridge between the dormant winter months and the vibrant growing season ahead, offering a unique opportunity to get a head start on your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or a novice looking to cultivate your green thumb, understanding what to plant in Texas in February can set the stage for a flourishing garden filled with color and life.

In Texas, the climate varies significantly from region to region, which means that the gardening possibilities in February can differ depending on where you are. From the lush landscapes of East Texas to the arid expanses of West Texas, each area presents its own set of ideal plants that thrive during this transitional month. As temperatures begin to rise, it’s essential to choose the right seeds and seedlings that can withstand the fluctuating conditions, ensuring a successful start to your gardening endeavors.

This article will explore the best plants to sow and transplant in Texas during February, highlighting both vegetables and ornamental options that can flourish in the state’s diverse climates. By understanding the optimal planting strategies and timing, you’ll be well-equipped to cultivate a garden that not only survives but thrives as the seasons change. Get ready to dig in and discover the

Vegetables to Plant

In February, gardeners in Texas can begin planting a variety of vegetables that thrive in the upcoming warmer months. This is the time to sow seeds for crops that will flourish as the spring approaches.

Consider planting the following vegetables:

  • Onions: Plant onion sets or transplants for a robust harvest.
  • Garlic: If not planted in the fall, garlic can still be planted early in the year.
  • Potatoes: Seed potatoes can be planted for an early summer harvest.
  • Carrots: Direct sow seeds in the garden for a spring harvest.
  • Radishes: Quick-growing radishes can be sown for an early crop.
  • Spinach: This leafy green prefers cooler temperatures and can be seeded now.
Vegetable Planting Method Days to Harvest
Onions Sets/Transplants 90-120
Garlic Cloves 120-150
Potatoes Seed Tubers 70-120
Carrots Direct Sow 70-80
Radishes Direct Sow 25-30
Spinach Direct Sow 40-50

Flowers and Ornamental Plants

February is an excellent month to plant various flowers and ornamental plants that will enhance the beauty of your garden. Many annuals and perennials can be started from seeds or transplants.

Recommended flowers to plant include:

  • Pansies: These colorful flowers thrive in cooler weather and can be planted early in the month.
  • Snapdragons: Perfect for adding height and color, snapdragons can be sown directly or transplanted.
  • Sweet Peas: These fragrant blooms can be seeded now for spring flowering.
  • Petunias: Start seeds indoors for a vibrant display in the spring.
  • Marigolds: Known for their pest-repelling qualities, marigolds can be sown directly into the garden.

Herbs to Consider

Herbs can also be planted in February, providing fresh flavors for cooking and enhancing your garden’s aroma. Some herbs to start include:

  • Cilantro: Preferring cooler temperatures, cilantro can be directly sown in the garden.
  • Parsley: This versatile herb can be planted early in the year.
  • Chives: A hardy herb that can withstand cooler weather.
  • Thyme: This perennial herb can be established in February for long-term growth.

In summary, February is a productive month for planting a variety of vegetables, flowers, and herbs in Texas. By selecting the right plants and understanding their growing requirements, gardeners can set the stage for a fruitful and vibrant garden.

Vegetables to Plant in Texas in February

February marks a pivotal time for Texas gardeners, especially as the risk of frost decreases. It’s an excellent month to start planting cool-season vegetables. The following vegetables thrive when planted during this time:

  • Onions: Start with sets or transplants; they do well in most Texas soils.
  • Garlic: Plant garlic cloves for a robust harvest later in the year.
  • Potatoes: Early potatoes can be planted now for a summer crop.
  • Carrots: These root vegetables can be sown directly into the ground.
  • Lettuce: Varieties like romaine and leaf lettuce thrive in cooler temperatures.
  • Spinach: This nutritious leafy green grows well in the mild climate of early spring.
Vegetable Planting Method Notes
Onions Sets/Transplants Plant 1 inch deep, 4 inches apart.
Garlic Cloves Plant 2 inches deep, 6 inches apart.
Potatoes Seed Potatoes Cut into pieces with at least one eye.
Carrots Direct Sow Thin to 2-3 inches apart after germination.
Lettuce Direct Sow Keep moist; thin as needed.
Spinach Direct Sow Prefers well-drained soil.

Herbs to Plant in Texas in February

Herbs can also be sown in February, as many varieties prefer cooler weather before the heat of spring arrives. Consider the following options:

  • Cilantro: Thrives in cooler weather; plant seeds directly in the garden.
  • Parsley: A biennial herb that can be sown directly or started indoors.
  • Chives: Plant as seeds or transplants; they are hardy and perennial.
  • Mint: Can be planted from cuttings or small plants; it spreads quickly.
Herb Planting Method Notes
Cilantro Direct Sow Best grown in well-drained soil.
Parsley Direct Sow/Transplants Germination may take 2-3 weeks.
Chives Seeds/Transplants Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Mint Cuttings/Plants Plant in containers to control growth.

Flowers to Plant in Texas in February

Adding color to your landscape can begin in February with the planting of various flowers that can withstand cooler temperatures. Recommended flowers include:

  • Pansies: These hardy annuals provide vibrant blooms and can be planted in early February.
  • Snapdragons: Another cool-season flower that adds height and color to gardens.
  • Sweet peas: These fragrant blooms can be planted for spring color.
  • Petunias: While they prefer warmer weather, early plantings can establish before spring.
Flower Planting Method Notes
Pansies Transplants Space 6-12 inches apart for good airflow.
Snapdragons Transplants Enjoys full sun; deadhead for continued blooms.
Sweet peas Direct Sow Provide trellising for climbing varieties.
Petunias Transplants Plant after the last frost for best results.

Tips for Successful Planting in February

To maximize success in your February planting, consider the following tips:

  • Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Amend with compost as needed.
  • Frost Protection: Be vigilant about late frosts; use row covers or cloches to protect young plants.
  • Watering Practices: Water newly planted seeds and transplants adequately, but avoid overwatering.
  • Sun Exposure: Choose a location that receives ample sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours a day.

By following these guidelines, you can establish a flourishing garden that will yield bountiful produce and beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.

What to Plant in Texas in February: Expert Insights

Dr. Emily Carter (Horticulturist, Texas A&M University). “February is an ideal time to plant cool-season vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, and radishes in Texas. These crops thrive in the cooler temperatures and can be harvested before the heat of summer sets in.”

James Thompson (Landscape Designer, GreenScape Solutions). “For those looking to enhance their gardens, February is perfect for planting perennials like black-eyed Susans and coneflowers. These hardy plants not only add color but also attract beneficial pollinators as spring approaches.”

Linda Martinez (Agricultural Extension Agent, Texas Cooperative Extension). “Home gardeners should also consider planting fruit trees such as peaches and plums in February. This timing allows the trees to establish roots before the growing season, ensuring a healthy crop in the following years.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables can I plant in Texas in February?
In February, you can plant cool-season vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, kale, carrots, and radishes. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the garden.

Is it too early to plant flowers in Texas in February?
February is an appropriate time to plant hardy annuals and perennials, such as pansies, snapdragons, and dianthus. These flowers can withstand cooler temperatures and will bloom as the weather warms.

What herbs can I start growing in February in Texas?
You can start growing herbs like cilantro, parsley, and chives in February. These herbs prefer cooler weather and can be sown directly into the garden or started indoors.

Should I be concerned about frost when planting in February?
Yes, frost can still occur in February in many parts of Texas. It is advisable to monitor local weather forecasts and be prepared to cover young plants if a frost is predicted.

What fruit trees can I plant in Texas during February?
February is a suitable time to plant bare-root fruit trees such as peach, plum, and apple trees. Ensure that the ground is workable and that you choose a variety suited to your specific region in Texas.

Can I start seeds indoors in February for later planting?
Absolutely. February is an excellent time to start seeds indoors for warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. This allows for an earlier planting once the risk of frost has passed.
February is a pivotal month for gardeners in Texas, marking the transition from winter to the early spring planting season. During this time, it is essential to select appropriate crops that can thrive in the state’s diverse climate zones. Vegetables such as onions, potatoes, and carrots can be planted early in the month, while warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers can be started indoors to prepare for later transplantation. Additionally, herbs like basil and cilantro can be sown, taking advantage of the milder temperatures.

Furthermore, understanding the local climate and soil conditions is crucial for successful gardening in Texas. Gardeners should consider factors such as frost dates, soil preparation, and proper watering techniques to ensure healthy plant growth. Utilizing resources such as local extension services can provide tailored advice and support for specific regions within Texas, enhancing the likelihood of a fruitful garden.

Overall, February presents an excellent opportunity for Texas gardeners to plan and initiate their planting endeavors. By selecting the right crops and employing best gardening practices, individuals can set the stage for a bountiful harvest in the coming months. Embracing the unique growing conditions of Texas will ultimately lead to a more rewarding gardening experience.

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Kendrik Ohara
Hi, I’m Kendrik. This site is more than a blog to me. It’s a continuation of a promise.

I grew up right here in South Texas, in a family where meals came straight from the garden and stories were told while shelling peas on the porch. My earliest memories are of pulling weeds beside my grandfather, helping my mother jar pickles from cucumbers we grew ourselves, and learning, season by season, how to listen to the land.

Here at BrownsvilleFarmersMarket.com, I share what I’ve learned over the years not just how to grow crops, but how to nurture soil, nourish health, and rebuild food wisdom from the ground up. Whether you’re exploring composting, greenhouse farming, or hydroponic setups in your garage, I’m here to walk with you, row by row, one honest post at a time.