As the new year begins, so does the opportunity for avid gardeners to start laying the groundwork for a flourishing garden. January, often seen as a quiet month in the garden, actually offers unique opportunities for planting certain varieties that thrive in cooler temperatures or benefit from an early start. Choosing the right plants to sow in January can lead to a head start on the growing season, resulting in an abundant and vibrant garden in the months to come.
Top 5 January Starter Plants
Explore the top 5 plants perfect for starting your gardening journey in the new year, suitable for various climates.
Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet Peas, known botanically as Lathyrus odoratus, are a charming choice to start sowing in January. Celebrated for their delightful fragrance and range of colorful blooms, these climbing plants can add both visual and aromatic appeal to any garden.
For best results, start Sweet Peas indoors in January. Use individual pots filled with a good quality seed compost and plant the seeds about an inch deep. Sweet Peas benefit from a bright, cool location to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches and have a couple of true leaves, they can be pinched out to encourage bushier growth. Gradual acclimatization to outdoor conditions is key before transplanting them outside in spring. Plant them in well-drained soil and in a sunny spot for the best flowering results. With their early start in January, Sweet Peas will be ready to provide a spectacular display of flowers and fragrance throughout the warmer months.
Onions (Allium cepa)
Onions, or Allium cepa, are a staple in many kitchens and an excellent choice for planting in January. Starting onions early in the year ensures a longer growing period, leading to larger, more flavorful bulbs by the time of harvest.
For a successful onion crop, begin with choosing the right variety. There are many types of onions suitable for different climates and daylight lengths, so select one that is appropriate for your area. Start the seeds indoors in trays or pots using a well-draining soil mix. Provide them with plenty of light and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall and the outdoor temperatures have started to rise, they can be hardened off and transplanted into the garden. Plant them in a sunny spot with nutrient-rich soil. Proper spacing is important to allow each onion bulb enough room to grow. With an early start in January, onions will have ample time to develop fully, providing a bountiful harvest later in the year.
Pansies (Viola x wittrockiana)
Pansies, classified as Viola x wittrockiana, are a popular choice for adding a splash of color to the winter and early spring garden. Their hardiness and ability to withstand cool temperatures make them ideal for starting in January.
When planting pansies in January, it’s often best to start them indoors or in a greenhouse. Use a seed-starting mix and plant the seeds shallowly, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light. Pansies germinate best at cooler temperatures, so avoid placing them in overly warm conditions. As the seedlings develop, they can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being transplanted into the garden. Choose a spot with well-draining soil and partial to full sun. Pansies are excellent for borders, containers, and window boxes, providing vibrant color during the cooler months. With an early start in January, these delightful flowers will be ready to brighten up your garden as soon as the weather begins to warm.
Leeks (Allium porrum)
Leeks, or Allium porrum, are a flavorful and versatile vegetable that can be started in January for a summer or fall harvest. These hardy plants are tolerant of cold temperatures, making them suitable for early sowing.
Begin by sowing leek seeds indoors in trays or pots filled with a fine seed compost. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water them gently. Keep the soil moist and provide them with enough light, either natural or through grow lights. Once the seedlings are sturdy enough and about the thickness of a pencil, they can be transplanted outdoors. Harden off the seedlings gradually to acclimate them to outdoor conditions. Leeks prefer a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Plant them deeply to encourage the growth of long white stems, and space them adequately to ensure proper growth. Regular watering and occasional feeding will help in developing strong, healthy leeks. Starting leeks in January allows for a longer growing season, resulting in larger and more flavorful leeks.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, is a robust and easy-to-grow crop that can be planted in January, particularly in milder climates. Planting garlic at this time allows for a well-established root system, leading to larger bulbs at harvest.
For planting garlic, select a well-drained, sunny spot in your garden. Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter such as compost. Separate the garlic cloves from the bulb, taking care not to damage their bases. Plant the cloves pointy-end up, about 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart, covering them with soil. Mulching with straw or leaves can help protect the cloves from severe weather and keep weeds at bay. Garlic requires little care once planted, but it’s important to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the spring and early summer. By starting garlic in January, you set the stage for a successful harvest of this essential culinary ingredient later in the year.
Starting plants in January lays the foundation for a rewarding gardening season. Each of these plants offers unique benefits, from the fragrant beauty of Sweet Peas to the culinary versatility of Garlic and Onions. Early sowing maximizes growing time, ensuring robust growth and bountiful harvests. January may be cold and quiet, but it’s an ideal time for gardeners to begin preparations and sow seeds that will flourish in the months ahead. Embracing this early start can lead to a diverse and thriving garden, full of color, flavor, and beauty.