As the new year begins, many gardeners are eager to get a head start on their planting. If you’re living in a region with freezing temperatures, snow, or rain, January is the perfect time to prepare for the growing season. This guide will help you decide which seeds to plant this month and how to set them up for success.
Why January Matters for Certain Seeds
Starting seeds in January isn’t just for early birds. Many plants benefit from the extra time to develop strong root systems and larger biomass before being transplanted outdoors. Whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, the key is to choose varieties that thrive with a head start.
Vegetables to Start in January
- Strawberries and Rhubarb: These perennials benefit from early planting. Starting now ensures stronger roots and healthier plants come spring. Plus, they pair perfectly in recipes like rhubarb-strawberry pie.
- Onions and Leeks: If you want large, robust onions, start them early. These crops require a long growing season to reach their full potential.
- Peppers: Hot peppers, in particular, benefit from an early start. If you have a heat mat, it will speed up germination. Without one, try placing seed trays on a warm windowsill or near a heating vent.
- Kohlrabi: Starting kohlrabi now allows for an early harvest in late spring. For a continuous supply, stagger your planting over several weeks.
- Asparagus and Artichokes: These plants take time to establish. Starting them in January helps ensure they’re strong enough for outdoor planting later.
Herbs to Start in January
- Woody Herbs: Herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and lavender take longer to mature. Starting them now allows time for pruning, which promotes bushier growth.
- Sweet Basil and Lemon Balm: While basil can wait until later, starting it now gives you a head start. Lemon balm also benefits from early planting, especially if you plan to use it for tea or aromatherapy.
- Stevia: This plant is known for its natural sweetness. Starting it early gives you time to trim it back and encourage fuller growth.
Flowers to Start in January
- Delphiniums, Foxgloves, and Snapdragons: These flowers take time to establish. Early planting ensures they’ll bloom beautifully in your garden.
- Violas: These versatile flowers can be started now for both ornamental and edible uses.
Tips for January Seed Starting
- Use a Heat Mat or Find Warm Spots: Seeds like peppers and tomatoes germinate faster with heat. If you don’t have a heat mat, place your seed trays near a warm window or over a heating vent.
- Start in Waves: For vegetables like kohlrabi or onions, consider planting in batches a few weeks apart. This approach ensures a steady harvest throughout the season.
- Prune for Growth: For woody herbs and plants like sweet basil, pruning encourages bushier growth. Trim the tops as they grow to stimulate branching.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Pests: Celery is prone to aphids. Choose resistant varieties like Utah celery and keep an eye out for signs of infestation.
- Thin Growth: If your plants grow tall and spindly, they may need more light. Position them under grow lights or near bright windows to ensure healthy development.
- Overcrowding: Avoid planting too many seeds in one tray. Thin seedlings early to give them enough space to grow strong.
Why Start Now?
Starting seeds in January gives you a critical advantage. By the time the weather warms up, your plants will be stronger and better equipped to handle outdoor conditions. For perennials like strawberries and rhubarb, this means better survival rates. For vegetables like onions and kohlrabi, it means bigger, healthier harvests.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, starting early sets you up for success. Take the time now to sow your seeds, and you’ll thank yourself later when your garden is thriving.
