Seed Starting in January: What to Plant Early

January may seem like a quiet time in the garden, but for gardeners eager to get a head start on the growing season, it’s the perfect time to begin sowing seeds indoors. By starting your seeds early, you can give your plants a head start, ensuring a plentiful harvest when the warmer months arrive. Here’s a guide on what to plant in January to get your garden off to a great start.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to start indoors in January. Most varieties need a long growing season, so starting them early gives them plenty of time to mature. Aim to start seeds 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. You can start varieties like Roma, Cherry, or Beefsteak tomatoes indoors in January, and by the time the weather warms, you’ll have strong seedlings ready to be planted outside.

2. Peppers

Like tomatoes, peppers need a longer growing season to thrive. Whether you’re planting sweet peppers or hot peppers, starting them indoors in January gives them the time they need to grow strong before being transplanted outside. Bell peppers, Jalapeños, and Habaneros are great options to start indoors this early.

3. Leeks

Leeks are cold-tolerant vegetables that thrive in early spring. Start them indoors in January to give them a head start. Leeks are slow-growing, so giving them a few extra weeks of indoor warmth and light helps them get established. You can transplant them outside as soon as the soil is workable.

4. Onions

Onions, especially those grown from seed rather than sets, benefit from an early start. Start your onion seeds in January to give them plenty of time to grow strong before transplanting them outside in spring. Yellow onions and red onions are popular choices for starting indoors.

5. Cabbage and Other Brassicas

Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are all members of the brassica family that thrive when started early. Start your cabbage seeds indoors in January for a spring harvest. These cool-weather vegetables will be ready for transplanting outdoors as the weather warms, and they can handle the light frosts of early spring.

6. Herbs: Basil, Parsley, and Thyme

Starting herbs indoors early in January can give you fresh flavours for your kitchen long before your outdoor garden is ready to harvest. Basil, parsley, and thyme are great options for an early indoor planting. These herbs thrive in warm conditions, so keep them in a bright, warm spot to help them grow strong.

7. Celery

Celery is another vegetable that requires a long growing season. Starting it indoors in January allows it to develop strong, healthy roots before being transplanted outside. Celery seeds need warmth and light to germinate, so make sure you have the right conditions indoors.

8. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that can be started indoors in January. They require a long growing season and benefit from being started early. Transplant them outdoors in early spring when the weather is cool, and you’ll have delicious sprouts by late summer to fall.

Tips for Successful Seed Starting in January:

• Use a Quality Seed-Starting Mix: For the best results, use a sterile seed-starting mix that’s light and well-draining. Avoid using regular garden soil, which can be too dense and might harbour diseases.
• Provide Adequate Light: Seeds started indoors need plenty of light to thrive. Place them near a bright window or invest in grow lights to ensure they receive at least 12-16 hours of light per day.
• Maintain Warmth: Keep your seedlings warm (65°F to 75°F is ideal) to encourage germination. A seedling heat mat can help maintain consistent warmth for better results.
• Keep Soil Moist: Water gently to keep the soil moist but not soggy. A spray bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle works well for this.
• Transplanting: Once seedlings are big enough and outdoor conditions are favourable (after the last frost date), gradually harden them off by exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few hours a day.

By starting your seeds indoors in January, you’re setting yourself up for an earlier harvest and a more productive gardening season. This early planning helps ensure you’ll have healthy, strong plants ready for the outdoors when the weather warms, making for a successful and rewarding garden come spring!