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As the days begin to get longer, a flower gardener’s thoughts turn to the new season ahead and the possibilities of what can be grown. So if you’re looking for ways to jumpstart your spring harvest, one great way is to find out what seeds to start in January.
As a general rule, January’s light and warmth levels are too low for most seeds to germinate. However, there are some exceptions. Seeds that take a long time to germinate, seeds that like a cool start and perennials are just some of the types of seeds that you can start to grow in January.
If you didn’t start any seeds off last autumn and want to get ahead of the game, here are a few examples of what is good to sow in January.
Can you start seeds in January?
It is possible to start flower seeds indoors during January. However, it is often best to have low expectations, as many factors determine whether the seed will germinate. Seed germination does need reasonable weather conditions, and January is so variable that you just can’t be sure. So if you want to save time or seed, wait until the average temperature is slightly warmer and the light levels have increased.
If you like to live on the wild side and are willing to take the risk, then you should consider the following criteria:
- Light requirements: Some seeds require a lot of light to germinate, while others can germinate in lower light conditions. In January, you are looking for seeds that prefer to get started in the dark and don’t need much light to grow.
- Germination time: Consider the length of time it takes for the seeds to germinate and how long it will take for them to grow to a size suitable for transplanting. Start them at the earliest point to have them ready when you want to transplant them in the garden, typically just after the risk of the last frost has passed. Seeds that take a long time to germinate are good contenders for starting in January.
- Temperature: Some seeds germinate best at higher temperatures, while others germinate best at cooler temperatures. For January sowings, you are looking for seeds that prefer cooler conditions.
- Plant hardiness: Make sure the plants you choose to grow are hardy. Any half-hardy seeds should be left until March at the earliest.
Perennials often fall into all the above criteria, so they are often good candidates for your January sowing list.
Providing the seeds you choose can cope with January conditions, starting these seeds indoors in the winter will give them a head start, and they will be ready to plant out when the weather is suitable.
Is it ok to use artificial light?
Of course, you can always fake the conditions and provide light and heat artificially to help you get a head start. But as a general rule of thumb, unless you are planning on harvesting the flowers inside as well, starting any seed too early in the season means you have the headache of trying to keep it healthy while you wait for it to be able to be planted outside.
Personally, I prefer to grow as the seasons intended and try to keep the flowers as seasonal as possible.
Hardy annual flower seeds that take a long time to germinate
Depending on the species, some flower seeds can take a long time to germinate. Some examples include:
- Cleome: Germination 21 days + and can be erratic, often aided by cool conditions.
- Antirrhinum (Snapdragons): These seeds germinate best in temperatures between 55-65°F (13-18°C) and can take up to 2-3 weeks to germinate.
- Cobaea Scandens: Germination takes 21-30 days.
It’s important to note that germination time can be affected by various factors, such as temperature, moisture, light, and seed quality. So, these are approximate germination times. You should always check the seed packet for more accurate information.
Hardy annual flower seeds that like a cool start
Seeds that like a cold start, depend significantly on your growing zone. This, in turn, can dramatically affect timings. Here in North Shropshire, UK, certain crops like stock, campanula, and foxglove can be started now and planted out a little before our last frost date. Some other annual flowers also prefer cool temperatures to germinate and grow. Here are some examples:
- Dill: These seeds can take up to 10-14 days to germinate.
- Daucus: Seed dormancy is broken by a period of exposure to cold, so they are best sown in autumn or before the weather warms.
- Larkspur: These seeds can take up to a month or more to germinate and are best started indoors in the winter.
It’s important to note that you should check the seed packet for more accurate information. For example, some seeds can germinate in a wide range of temperatures. Also, it’s essential to maintain the appropriate moisture level and light for the seeds you choose.
Hardy annual flower seeds that germinate in the dark
Some annual cut flower seeds can germinate in the dark, meaning they do not require light to sprout and start growing. Although, it’s important to note that even though these seeds can germinate in the dark, they will still require light to grow and develop once they have sprouted. Additionally, just because they like the dark, you will need to check they also like the cold.
One good example is the Chinese Forget-Me-Not.
Perennials seeds
These plants take longer to become productive (sometimes years), and the sooner you get them started, the better. I like to have decent-sized plants ready to plant out after our first frost date, and for me, January is a great time to get those going. Here are some examples:
- Achillea: Germination takes 5-10 days.
- Aquilegia (Columbine): Germination takes 1-3 months and can be erratic, often aided by cool conditions.
- Astrantia: Germination takes 2-4 weeks and can be inconsistent, often aided by cool conditions.
You could also think about eucalyptus or ornamental grasses.
Seeds to start in January
Growing flowers is incredibly specific to your area/weather/microclimate. The longer you grow things, the savvier you will become regarding what seeds to start and when. Don’t expect to know everything if you’re just starting out.
Approach the process as a learner, be prepared to make mistakes, learn from them, and watch your confidence and expertise grow. If you want more tasks to do this January, instead of staying cozy indoors, this post will give you some ideas on what you can do to get a head start on Spring.
If you are ready to buy your seeds I have all of the easy cut flower seeds to grow in my shop. Shop Now
