In the Pacific NorthWest, zone 8, the second week of February is a great time to start growing certain vegetable seeds indoors. Here are some recommended seeds to start indoors:
- Broccoli: Broccoli seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Cauliflower: Cauliflower seeds should be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost, just like broccoli.
- Leeks: Leeks can be started indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Kale: Kale seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Swiss Chard: Swiss chard seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Lettuce: Lettuce seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Spinach: Spinach seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost.
- Radish: Radish seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost.
When starting seeds indoors, it’s important to make sure they receive adequate light and moisture. If you do not have a sunny window, you may need to invest in a grow light. Additionally, make sure to plant the seeds in quality potting soil and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Once the seedlings have emerged and have developed a set of true leaves, it’s important to begin hardening them off so they can acclimate to outdoor conditions before being transplanted. This process involves gradually exposing the seedlings to outdoor conditions over the course of a week or so.
Starting seeds indoors can be a fun and rewarding process, giving you a head start on the growing season and the ability to enjoy fresh produce from your own garden. By starting seeds indoors in the second week of February, you’ll be well on your way to having a productive and successful gardening season in the Pacific NorthWest, zone 8.