February Sowing Guide
What to Sow in February in the Western Cape
February marks late summer in the Western Cape, and while the days are still warm, the evenings start to cool slightly. This makes it a great time to begin sowing crops for autumn and winter harvests. Choosing the right plants now helps ensure strong growth before the cooler months arrive.
Here’s a guide to what you can sow in February in the Western Cape.
Herbs to Sow in February
Herbs grow quickly and are ideal for succession planting at this time of year. Sow directly into prepared beds or containers.
- Basil
- Dill
- Coriander
- Parsley
- Spring onion
- Rocket
- Thyme
- Oreganum
- Chervil
Tip: Keep seedlings well watered and provide light shade during hot afternoons.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens thrive as temperatures start easing and are perfect for continuous harvesting.
- Swiss chard
- Lettuce
- Raddichio
- Kale
- Spinach
These can be sown directly into garden beds or started in seed trays for transplanting later.
Root Vegetables
Root crops need loose, well-prepared soil to develop properly. Remove stones and break up clumps before sowing.
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beetroot
- Turnips
- Parsnips
Radishes and carrots grow quickly and are great for beginner gardeners.
Vegetables for Winter Crops
Now is the ideal time to sow brassicas and other cool-season vegetables that will mature during autumn and winter.
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussel sprouts
- Leeks
- Broad beans
- Celery
- Onions
Most of these can be started in seed trays and transplanted once seedlings are strong.
Flowers to Sow in February
Sowing flowers now will reward you with colour through autumn and into winter and spring.
- Iceland poppies
- Pansies
- Alyssum
- Snapdragons (Antirrhinum)
- Violas
- Primulas
- Larkspurs
- Cinerarias
- Calendula
- Gazanias
- Dimorphotheca
- Livingstone daisies
These flowers also attract beneficial insects and pollinators to your garden.
Sowing Tips for Winter Seeds
Winter crops benefit from a strong start, so a little extra care when sowing now will pay off later.
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Start seeds in trays where possible
Crops like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and leeks do well when started in seed trays and transplanted later. This protects young seedlings from heat, pests and heavy rain. -
Use a fine, well-draining seed mix
A light seedling or propagation mix helps roots develop easily and prevents waterlogging during cooler months. -
Don’t sow too deep
Most winter seeds prefer shallow sowing. As a rule, plant seeds about twice their size in depth. -
Water gently and consistently
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Early mornings are best for watering, especially while temperatures are still warm. -
Harden off before transplanting
Before moving seedlings into garden beds, expose them gradually to outdoor conditions for a few days to avoid shock. -
Prepare your beds early
Add compost and loosen soil before transplanting winter crops so roots can establish quickly. -
Watch for pests
Even in cooler weather, caterpillars and aphids love young brassicas. Check regularly and treat early.
Growing Tips for February
- Water consistently, especially during hot spells.
- Use a good quality seedling or propagation mix for best germination.
- Mulch garden beds to retain moisture and protect young seedlings.
- Sow in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat stress.
February is a transition month in the Western Cape garden, making it the perfect time to prepare for the cooler seasons ahead. By planting now, you set your garden up for productive harvests and beautiful blooms in the months to come.
For seeds, soil mixes and growing supplies, visit Layla’s Organics or browse online at
www.laylasorganics.co.za