Spring is almost here, and if you’re itching to get your hands in the dirt, you don’t have to wait! Late February is prime time to start planting certain veggies, herbs, and flowers in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Tulsa’s climate (hello, Zone 7a) allows for some early season crops to thrive before the summer heat kicks in. According to the Oklahoma Garden Planning Guide from OSU Extension, now’s the perfect time to plant cool-season vegetables, hardy herbs, and some vibrant flowers that will set the stage for a gorgeous and productive garden. Be sure to check us out for a large selection of heirloom, open pollinated seeds from Sow the Magic!
Vegetables to Plant Now
Here are the best veggies to plant in late February:
🥕 Root Vegetables – Beets, Carrots, Radishes, and Turnips. These underground gems are low-maintenance and great for first-time gardeners. Bonus: They’re also super nutritious!
🥬 Leafy Greens – Lettuce, Spinach, Kale, and Swiss Chard. They thrive in cooler temps and taste so much fresher from your backyard.
🥦 Brassicas – Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, and Brussels Sprouts. These might take a little longer to mature, but they’re worth it. Think of all the roasted Brussels sprout recipes you can make.
🥔 Others – Peas, Potatoes, and Onion Sets. If you love hearty meals, these are must-haves. Onions and potatoes are especially great because they store well, meaning you can enjoy your harvest for months.
Herbs to Plant Now
🌿 Parsley – This powerhouse herb is perfect for adding flavor to everything from pasta to salads. It also grows well in cooler temperatures, making it ideal for early planting.
🌿 Cilantro – Love tacos? Grow your own cilantro and never buy a wilted grocery store bunch again. (Pro tip: Cilantro bolts in hot weather, so get it going now!)
🌿 Chives – These mild, onion-like herbs are super easy to grow and perfect for adding to homemade dips, eggs, or baked potatoes. Bonus: They come back every year!
Flowers to Plant Now
Want your yard to look aesthetic while attracting pollinators? Here are some flowers that can handle the late winter chill:
🌸 Pansies & Violas – These colorful cuties can withstand cold snaps and bloom well into spring. Plus, they’re edible! Use them as fancy toppings for salads and cocktails.
🌼 Snapdragons – Tall, vibrant, and great for pollinators, snapdragons will give your garden a whimsical cottagecore vibe.
🌿 Calendula – Not only are they beautiful, but calendula flowers have skin-soothing properties, making them a great pick for DIY skincare lovers.
Tips for Success
✅ Watch the Weather – Oklahoma weather is unpredictable, so keep an eye on frost warnings and be ready to cover delicate plants if needed.
✅ Improve Your Soil – Mix in compost or organic matter to give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive. Happy soil = happy plants. (Pro tip: rabbit poop is an excellent soil enhancer)
✅ Start Indoors If Necessary – Some seeds (like broccoli and cabbage) do better when started indoors and transplanted outside once they’ve grown a bit. If you want to get a head start, a sunny windowsill or grow lights can help.
✅ Water Wisely – Even though it’s not scorching hot yet, new plants still need consistent watering. Aim for early morning watering to help roots absorb moisture before the sun evaporates it. (Pro tip: install a water barrel to catch rainwater for your garden!)
Get Growing!
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start gardening, this is it! Late February is a prime time to start planting in Tulsa, and whether you’re growing food, herbs, or flowers, your future self (and maybe your wallet) will thank you. So, grab some seeds, throw on your favorite playlist, and get your hands dirty—your spring garden will be thriving before you know it!
💚 Happy planting!
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