What can I plant in January? I’m in gardening withdrawal.

Each January, I begin thinking about spring gardening. I have learned over the years, that January is a great month for certain garden task. I begin planning what I will plant in spring, ordering seeds or other supplies I need, and I start seeds for slow growing veggies and herbs. Yes, I start SOME vegetable seeds in January. It really depends on your zone and last frost date. I’m located on the line of 7b and 8a. When beginning to garden, you need to know your first and last frost dates of the year. It will save you the heartache of loosing plants and having to start over. That’s so disheartening. Here is a link to find your frost dates. https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates

Click on the link and enter your zip code. The link will guide you on things you can plant at various times. In my area, my last frost date is April 5, and first frost is October 29. I have learned these dates are very important in guiding me when to plant outdoors and when to start seeds indoor. This link will give you a planting or seed starting calendar, based on your zip code. I use this every year.

When I am planning my garden, I make a list of all vegetables I want to grow. Then, I make a list of companion plants for organic strategies to help with pest, flavor, attracting pollinators, and plants that help each other grow not hinder. I’ll have a companion planting/organic gardening blog soon.

Planning may seem like it’s not that important, but it is the most important component to successful gardening. I actually drew a diagram years ago, which has evolved, plus changes as I rotate crops. I still refer to that same guide so I don’t have to say to myself “what did I do last year? Where and what did I plant?”. In the beginning, I just through plants in the ground. I’ve learned, while I still had produce, I wasn’t as successful and I had to use pesticides and other artificially made products for that success. When planning search companion planting. It works. It works if you don’t plant 1 or 2 of those plants. Go heavy with them. Check back for a guide on that with pictures.

My garden is still growing from fall. Our winter has been mild so far, so I have I have cabbage, brussel sprouts, greens, spinach and kale growing. I may need to cover if it gets colder. It will keep me occupied till spring.

Get that planning done and start slow growing herbs and veggies this month. I’m starting tomatoes and peppers. Check the back of seed packets for timing.