A February Gardener’s State of Mind 

By Kim Amboy :

This time of year, Green Thumbers get a bit antsy being stuck indoors. Winter has lost its charm, everyone’s got a bad case of cabin fever, and growers are jonesing to get outside, enjoy the warmth of spring, and get their hands back in the dirt. Sadly, that’s not for a few weeks yet. However, February in Virginia is transition time—time to get into the gardening mindset. While my thumb isn’t even remotely green (more like chartreuse), I’ve learned from my own research and visiting a local gardening guru that there are plenty of things to do to make the time go by quickly. 

Garden Prep & Planning 

It’s a good time to review last year’s garden: What worked? What didn’t? If pests or disease were a problem, it might be a good idea to plan a crop rotation to minimize the hassle. Also, clean pots and seed trays with a mild bleach solution to prevent disease. 

While you’re in the planning mode, it’s also time to buy or order this year’s seeds, because popular varieties sell out quickly. 

Pruners, shovels, and mower blades will need a good cleaning and sharpening to be ready when you need them. 

Soil Care 

Now is the time to get your soil tested (especially if you haven’t in a few years). Virginia Cooperative Extension offers affordable testing. And, if the soil is workable, amend it with well-rotted manure or compost. And speaking of compost, try to minimize weed seeds in the pile…you’ll save yourself a lot of work in the growing season to come. 

Perennials, Trees, Shrubs & Pruning

It’s pruning time! Trim fruit trees (apple, pear, peach), and roses before new growth starts, but don’t prune spring-flowering shrubs like azalea, forsythia, or lilac—they already have buds. Keep an eye out for winter damage and remove any broken branches. Also, take this time to divide perennials such as daylilies and hostas if the soil is workable. 

Early Planting (Weather Permitting) 

Start your vegetable and herb seedlings indoors to give them a headstart—tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and herbs like basil and parsley. I learned the hard way that window light doesn’t produce the best results, and my seedlings were terribly “leggy”. Consider 

purchasing a full spectrum plant light for optimal seedling growth. The garden center at your local Southern States will have everything needed to get you growing. 

Yes, fellow garden enthusiasts, it might still be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean we can’t roll up our sleeves this month and start preparing for the upcoming growing season. May your harvest be bountiful! 

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