Get a Head Start on Spring Gardening: The Best Seeds to Start Indoors Now - Best Garden Seed

While it may still feel like winter, savvy gardeners know that now is the perfect time to begin seed-starting for an early spring garden. Getting your seeds going in late winter ensures that you have strong, healthy seedlings ready to plant in March, setting the stage for a productive and beautiful growing season. But not all seeds thrive in cool early spring temperatures, so choosing the right ones is key to success.

This guide will walk you through the best vegetables, herbs, and flowers to start indoors now, expert-backed seed-starting tips, and how to give your plants the strongest start possible!

Why Start Seeds Indoors in Winter?

Starting seeds indoors during the late winter months offers multiple benefits:

Stronger Plants: Indoor seedlings have time to develop sturdy root systems before facing outdoor conditions.
Early Harvests: Jump-starting the growing season means you’ll enjoy fresh veggies, herbs, and blooms sooner.
More Variety: Nurseries have limited seedlings, but starting your own seeds gives you access to unique varieties.
Cost Savings: Growing from seed is far more economical than buying mature plants.

Now, let’s dive into the top seeds to start indoors right now so your garden thrives come March!

Vegetables to Start Indoors in Late Winter

Cool-Season Champions

According to Valeria Nyman, Chief Product Officer at Taim.io, gardeners in both warm and cool climates should focus on cool-season vegetables in January and February. These include:

Onions – Start from seed now for robust bulbs by summer.
Peas – Get a head start indoors, then transplant in early spring.
Broccoli, Kale, Cabbage & Brussels Sprouts – Part of the brassica family, these thrive in early spring chill.
Collard Greens – Perfect for a nutrient-packed, early-season harvest.

“These plants thrive in the chill of early spring, so getting a head start is key,” Nyman says. “A good rule: anything that can survive a light frost should be on your list.”

Warm-Season Crops for Mild Climates

For those in USDA zones 8 and above, you can also start:

Tomatoes – Indoor-started tomato seedlings will be ready for outdoor planting by late February or March, giving them two fruiting seasons (spring and late summer!).
Peppers – Like tomatoes, peppers benefit from a longer growing season when started early indoors.

Herbs to Start Indoors Now for a Flavorful Garden

Herbs are easy to start from seed and can be grown indoors for months before transplanting outside. Some, like basil, need warmth, while others, like chives, tolerate cooler temperatures.

Basil – Loves warmth! Keep it indoors until temperatures stay above 50°F at night.
Chives – Hardy and cold-tolerant, chives can be planted early outdoors.
Mint – Grows aggressively, so starting in a container is best.
Oregano, Thyme & Sage – Perennial herbs that thrive when started early.
Parsley – A slow grower; starting early ensures a productive season.

Check seed packets for germination times and temperature recommendations for the best results.

Flowers You Can Start Indoors Now for Early Spring Blooms

Why wait until summer to enjoy flowers? Many cool-season blooms can be started now for early spring beauty in your garden.

Pansies – Cold-tolerant and colorful, perfect for early spring containers.
Snapdragons – Hardy and early bloomers, they add vertical interest.
Petunias – Can be started indoors now for lush spring hanging baskets.
Geraniums – Slow to grow but worth it for long-lasting summer blooms.
Coneflowers – A perennial favorite that blooms mid-to-late summer.
Poppies – Start indoors for an early spring floral display.
Sweet Peas – Fragrant climbers that thrive with an early start.

Expert Tip: “Flowers like pansies and snapdragons are cold-hardy and will be ready to plant or bloom by March into early April,” says Tammy Sons, CEO of TN Nursery.

Pro Tips for Successful Indoor Seed Starting

Provide Sufficient Light – Seedlings need 12-16 hours of light daily. If natural light is limited, invest in grow lights to prevent weak, leggy growth.
Keep It Warm – Most seeds germinate best between 70°F-75°F. Use a heat mat if needed.
Maintain Moisture – Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy using a spray bottle or gentle watering.
Label Your Seedlings – Young plants look alike; labeling prevents mix-ups.

Nyman’s Secret: “Light is your secret sauce! Without enough, seedlings stretch out like bad yoga poses—leggy and weak.”

Final Thoughts: The Best Time to Start Seeds Is Now!

Winter might not seem like gardening season, but starting seeds now ensures you’ll be ready for a lush, productive garden by March. From cool-season veggies to fragrant herbs and stunning flowers, early seed-starting is the key to a thriving garden year after year.

Get Growing Today! Pick your favorite seeds, set up a cozy indoor growing space, and watch your garden dreams take root!

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Happy Gardening!