February is the month when sowing really begins to open up. With brighter days and rising light levels, many seeds can be started indoors, in a greenhouse, or under cover for an early advantage. Hardy annuals such as achillea, agastache and ageratum can be sown now for strong summer displays. Many vegetables also benefit from a February start, including early salads, onions, broad beans in pots and fast growing greens.

Indoor growers can begin tender crops such as chillies and basil on a warm windowsill, while microgreens and sprouting seeds offer quick, rewarding harvests. Whether you garden in a tunnel, greenhouse or kitchen windowsill, February sowing sets you up for a productive and colourful season.