Seed catalog season — what to order in January
There's something magical about January. As the frost settles in and the days are still short, I find myself flipping through seed catalogs with a cup of tea in hand. It's the perfect time to dream about the garden and plan for the bounty of the coming spring.
Why it matters
January is the ideal month to order seeds. Many gardeners start planning their gardens now to ensure they have the best selection before popular varieties sell out. Starting your order early means you can carefully choose the right plants for your region and growing conditions. Plus, having a plan now sets you up for a successful season when the ground finally thaws.
What you'll need
- Current seed catalogs (or online seed suppliers)
- Notebook or garden planner
- Pen or pencil
- Access to your previous garden layout and notes
- Internet access for researching varieties
How to do it
- Review last year’s garden notes: Take a look at what worked and what didn’t in your garden last year. This will guide your decisions and help you avoid past mistakes.
- Research plant varieties: In January, many online seed catalogs are updated with new varieties. Look for disease-resistant, locally adapted, and heirloom seeds to add diversity to your garden.
- Plan your garden layout: Sketch out your garden on paper, keeping in mind companion planting principles and crop rotation strategies to maintain soil health.
- Create a seed list: Based on your notes and research, list the seeds you'll need. Consider the timing: some seeds might need indoor starting, while others can be sowed directly.
- Place your order: Order your seeds by the end of January to ensure ample time for delivery and any potential back-orders, especially if you plan on starting plants indoors in early spring.
It might still be chilly outside, but seed catalog season is the gardener's first glimpse of spring. Take your time to savor the process and prepare for a flourishing garden ahead.
From the DirectDeals catalog
If any of these would help with this: