Read by Matilda Longbottom
Dear Gardeners,
Welcome to the February 2025 issue of Food Gardening Magazine!
February might still feel like the depths of winter, but beneath the frost, there’s a buzz of anticipation in the gardening world. This is the month when seed catalogs pile up on our coffee tables, grow lights come out of storage, and gardeners everywhere start mapping out their spring dreams. In my own garden room, the seed-starting station is already humming with activity – there’s something magical about those first tiny sprouts pushing through the soil that makes even the coldest February day feel full of promise.
This year, we’re seeing renewed interest in creative growing methods, from hydroponic systems to indoor herb gardens. These innovations aren’t just changing how we garden; they’re expanding when and where we can grow our own food. It’s exciting to see traditional gardening wisdom meeting modern techniques, opening up new possibilities for gardeners of all experience levels.
Speaking of new possibilities, this month’s issue is packed with fresh ideas for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you’re diving into seed starting for the first time or looking to expand your basil varieties beyond the usual sweet basil, we’ve got you covered. I’m particularly excited about our feature on unique basil varieties – who knew there were so many fascinating flavors and forms of this beloved herb?
Fresh Takes
No matter your growing zone, February offers opportunities to advance your gardening year, and we have articles about each of the major planting zones to help you see what’s available to you this month:
- What to Plant in February in Zones 4-6: While winter maintains its grip, focus on indoor seed starting and cold frame management for early spring success.
- What to Plant in February in Zones 7-8: Begin preparing outdoor beds for early spring crops while continuing indoor seed starting.
- What to Plant in February in Zones 9-10: Take advantage of mild temperatures to plant cool-season vegetables and start warm-season crops.
- The Science of Seedling Success: Master the art and science of successful seed starting with our comprehensive guide.
Plant Close-Ups
In this issue, our Plant Close-Ups explore everything from exotic herbs to practical growing decisions. Looking to spice up your herb garden? Our unique basil guide will introduce you to varieties you never knew existed. Want to maximize your pea harvest? We’ve got expert tips for that too. Plus, you’ll discover the pros and cons of different bean-growing methods, learn about strawberry seasons across the country, and find creative ways to use your citrus harvest. Here are the articles:
- The Most Unique Types of Basil You’ve Never Tried: Discover exciting basil varieties to add to your garden.
- How to Get More Peas on Your Plant: Expert techniques for maximizing your pea harvest.
- Bush Beans vs. Pole Beans: To Climb or Not to Climb?: Choose the right bean variety for your garden goals.
- The Many Seasons of Strawberries Across the U.S.: Understanding regional strawberry growing patterns.
- Orange You Glad You Have Too Many Oranges?: Creative solutions for using and preserving your citrus bounty.
Get Your 2025 Spring Food Garden Planning Kit
We are also thrilled to present our 2025 Spring Food Garden Planning Kit! This comprehensive guide walks you through planning and planting a vibrant spring garden, complete with delicious recipes featuring spring harvests like asparagus and rhubarb. Whether you’re working with a sprawling backyard or a few containers, this kit will help you create a flourishing spring garden.
Featured Videos
This month’s videos focus on essential skills and tools for the upcoming growing season, plus a warm and hearty seasonal recipe:
- 6 Essential Gardening Tools for Beginners to Buy in February: Start your gardening journey with the right equipment.
- The Best Seed-Starting Methods for Max Germination: Master the techniques for successful seed starting.
- How to Build a Simple Hydroponic System: Create your own indoor growing system.
- How to Propagate Rosemary and Other Herbs Indoors: Expand your herb garden without leaving your kitchen.
- Hearty Winter Cacciatore: A warming winter dish perfect for February evenings.
Smoothie Recipe Collection
Beat the winter blues with these refreshing and nutritious smoothie recipes:
- Cozy Cinnamon Banana Smoothie: A comforting blend with a warm spice twist.
- Berry Good Smoothie: Make the most of your frozen summer berries.
- Simply Soothing Melon Smoothie: A refreshing treat that tastes like summer.
- Super Greens Kale Smoothie: Pack in those winter nutrients deliciously.
Plan Your Best Year Yet
Don’t forget to check out your 2025 Spring Food Garden Planning Kit! Gold Members can explore our Gardening Kits tab for more resources:
Check them out now, and download your favorites!
February may still be cold in many parts of the country, but it’s the perfect time to prepare for the growing season ahead. Whether you’re starting seeds under grow lights, experimenting with hydroponics, or simply dreaming of warmer days, we’re here to guide and inspire you every step of the way.
Happy gardening!
Warm regards,
Christy Page
Editor & Publisher
P.S. What seeds are you most excited to start this month? Share your plans in the comments below!
