What You Can Plant Outside Now for a Spring Harvest
Late February might feel like winter is still hanging on, but for gardeners, it’s the beginning of something exciting. Depending on your climate, this is the perfect time to start planting cold-hardy crops that will reward you with an early spring harvest.
The key to success is knowing what grows best in your region. Below, we’ll break down exactly what you can plant outdoors at the end of February in cold, mild, and hot climates, plus tips to help your garden thrive and a downloadable planting guide!
What You Can Plant Outside Now for a Spring Harvest
Understanding Your Climate Before You Plant
Before putting seeds in the ground, it’s helpful to know your USDA hardiness zone and average last frost date. Late February planting works best for crops that tolerate cool soil and light frosts. Leafy greens and root vegetables are especially reliable this time of year.
If the soil is workable (not frozen or muddy), you’re usually good to go.
What to Plant in Cold Climates (Zones 3–5)
In colder regions, winter may not be finished—but many vegetables are surprisingly resilient. These crops can handle chilly temperatures and even light snow.
Best vegetables to plant outdoors in late February:
- Peas (snow, snap, or shelling)
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Lettuce (cold-hardy varieties)
- Swiss chard
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Onions (sets or transplants)
- Garlic (if not planted in fall and soil is workable)
Gardening tips for cold climates:
- Use row covers or cold frames to protect young plants
- Expect slow early growth—plants will take off as daylight increases
- Avoid planting in soggy soil, which can stunt roots
What to Plant in Mild Climates (Zones 6–8)
Mild climates offer the most flexibility for late February planting. Cool-season crops thrive, and many gardeners can start succession planting early.
Best vegetables to plant outdoors in late February:
- Peas
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Arugula
- Beets
- Carrots
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Broccoli (transplants)
- Cabbage (transplants)
- Onions
- Potatoes (weather permitting)
Gardening tips for mild climates:
- Keep frost cloth handy for unexpected cold snaps
- Plant leafy greens every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvests
- Thin seedlings early to encourage healthy growth
What to Plant in Hot Climates (Zones 9–10)
For warm regions, late February is prime growing season. The goal here is to grow cool-season crops before summer heat causes bolting.
Best vegetables to plant outdoors in late February:
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Arugula
- Kale
- Swiss chard
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Peas
- Onions
- Potatoes
- Broccoli and cabbage (transplants)
- Herbs: cilantro, dill, parsley
Gardening tips for hot climates:
- Choose bolt-resistant varieties
- Harvest leafy greens early and often
- Mulch well to keep soil cool and retain moisture
Fast-Growing Crops for an Early Spring Harvest
If you’re eager to see quick results, these vegetables mature fast and grow well across most climates:
- Radishes (ready in about 30 days)
- Arugula
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Baby kale
These are perfect for raised beds, containers, or filling in gaps between slower-growing plants.
Here is a free downloadable planting guide:
Planting at the end of February sets the stage for a productive spring garden. By choosing crops suited to your climate and protecting them when needed, you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables weeks earlier than usual.
Whether you’re dealing with lingering frost or already feeling hints of spring warmth, now is the perfect time to get your hands in the soil.
Here are some other posts that might interest you:
- Gardening Jobs for February
- How to Grow Microgreens on Your Windowsill
- How to Create a Plan for Seed Starting
- How to Prepare for Spring Gardening
- How to Plan and Plant Your Own Garden
- 5 Vegetables to Grow if You are a Beginner Gardener
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