Old Farmers Warn Against Starting Seeds on These 9 February Dates – Here’s Why
If you’re starting seeds in February, these are the dates you need to avoid (and the ones to aim for instead).
February is the big kick-off for most gardeners, as it’s when most of us set to work on all of our seeds in earnest. But did you know that many old farmers warn against starting seeds on 9 key dates in February?
Oh yes, if you want to start seeds like a pro (whether that’s flower seeds or vegetable seeds), then it’s a good idea to check in with – ahem – the more seasoned gardeners among us. And, if you’ve ever heard an older green-fingered type mutter something like “ooh, I wouldn’t plant that today” without checking the weather forecast, chances are they were thinking about the moon.
That’s right: for generations, farmers and growers have used lunar planting calendars to decide when to sow, plant, and harvest. And February, with all of its promise and excitement of things to come, is a key month when timing really does matter. Especially if you're trying to muddle out when to start seeds.
Why February Seed Timing Matters
February is when many gardeners start seeds indoors, particularly for early crops like lettuce, brassicas, and peas. Some believe, though, that plants started too early, or on energetically “low” days, can become leggy, stressed, or slow to establish (relatable).
In fact, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, certain February dates are considered barren or poor planting days, which basically means that seeds started then may struggle to germinate, grow unevenly, or simply fail to thrive.
So which February days should you avoid, and when should you sow instead?
February Dates Old Farmers Avoid for Seed Starting
If you’re keen to borrow from the wisdom of old farmers, here are the dates best avoided for starting your seeds. Especially if you want to give them the best possible chance to thrive.
February 4-6: Barren Days
These are considered low-energy days for growth. Seeds sown now may germinate slowly or unevenly, if at all. Many growers use this time to rest the soil, clean pots, or organise seed trays rather than planting.
February 10-12: Poor Planting Days
Not quite as unproductive as barren days, but still not ideal. Seeds started now are more likely to produce weak or inconsistent seedlings. If you’re impatient to get started, it’s better to wait just a few days.
February 19-21: Barren Days (No Planting)
Another stretch where the advice is simple: don’t sow. These days are traditionally reserved for maintenance jobs: sharpening tools, checking compost, or planning your spring layout.
Altogether, that’s nine February dates where experienced growers would avoid starting seeds altogether.
The Best February Dates to Start Seeds Instead
If you want to stack the odds in your favour, these are the dates old farmers absolutely would have circled in their calendars for starting seeds.
February 13-15: Very Good Planting Days
Often described as some of the best seed-starting days of the month, thanks to strong lunar energy. Ideal for leafy crops and flowers grown for their blooms, including:
- Lettuce
- Cabbage
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Peas
- Annual flowers
Seedlings started now are believed to be stronger, more resilient, and quicker to establish.
February 16-18: Fine Planting Days
Still a solid window for sowing, especially if you missed the earlier peak. These days suit:
- Beans
- Peas
- Herbs
- Continued indoor seed starting
Growth may not be quite as vigorous as the “very good” days, but results are typically reliable.
February 22-24: Excellent Planting Window
A favourite among growers planning ahead. Particularly good for:
- Squash
- Cucumbers
- Melons
- Flowering plants
This window is thought to support strong above-ground growth and healthy vines.
Seed Starting Essentials:
The VIVOSUN seedling heat mat is garnering rave reviews on Amazon right now.
A thermostat keeps soil at the perfect temperature without overthinking.
A humidity dome locks in moisture and creates a mini-greenhouse effect.
Do You Have to Stick to these Rules?
Of course, you don’t have to listen to the old farmers; plenty of gardeners ignore moon phases entirely and still grow great plants. However, many experienced growers will tell you in no uncertain terms that, when conditions are already borderline (low light, cold temperatures, limited space), having even a little steer on the right days can give seedlings a subtle but helpful advantage.
If nothing else, lunar calendars encourage patience – which is something February gardening often demands. And hey, if a little old-fashioned wisdom could help your seedlings get off to a better start?
Well, that’s the kind of gardening magic we’re happy to believe in, quite frankly.
