17 Seeds You Should Start Now So They're Ready to Plant in March

As winter lingers, seasoned gardeners know that January and February are the perfect months to start seeds for a bountiful spring garden. While not all plants can withstand the chilly temperatures of March and April, certain vegetables, herbs, and flowers thrive when started early indoors. By planting the right seeds now, you’ll be set up for success when the warmer months arrive.

Below, expert gardeners share the top seeds to start now for a thriving garden in March.

Vegetables to Start in January

According to Valeria Nyman, chief product officer at Taim.io, January is the ideal time to start cool-season vegetables such as:

• Onions
• Peas
• Brassicas: Broccoli, kale, cabbage, collard greens, Brussels sprouts

These plants thrive in the cool temperatures of early spring, making an early start essential for a robust harvest.

For warm-climate gardeners (USDA zones 8 and above), now is also the time to start:

• Tomatoes
• Peppers

By starting these seeds indoors, gardeners in warm regions can enjoy two growing seasons—one in spring and another in late summer to early fall.

Herbs to Start in January

January is also the perfect time to start growing fresh herbs indoors. Consider planting:

• Chives
• Basil
• Mint
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Thyme
• Sage

Keep in mind that some herbs, like basil, are less cold-tolerant, so check seed packets for recommended germination temperatures before moving them outdoors.

Flowers to Start in January

For gardeners looking to add color to their spring garden, several flowers can be started indoors now. According to Tammy Sons, CEO of TN Nursery, these cold-hardy flowers are ideal for early planting:

• Pansies
• Snapdragons
• Petunias
• Geraniums
• Coneflowers
• Poppies
• Sweet Peas

While some flowers—such as pansies and snapdragons—begin blooming in early spring, others, like coneflowers, won’t bloom until late summer.

Expert Tips for Starting Seeds Early

To ensure your seedlings thrive, follow these expert tips:

• Keep seeds warm. Maintain temperatures between 70°F to 75°F for successful germination.
• Provide adequate light. If natural sunlight is limited, use grow lights to prevent weak, leggy seedlings.
• Label your seedlings. Most young plants look alike, so keep them organized to avoid mix-ups.

By starting these seeds now, you’ll be well-prepared for a lush, productive garden when March rolls around.