February Prep for Spring in PA (Zone 6): What to Do Now for a Beautiful Garden Later!

February in Pennsylvania can feel like the longest month of the year. The ground is frozen, the skies are gray, and spring feels just out of reach.

But here’s the secret: February is where the magic begins!

In Zone 6, this is the month to quietly prepare — so when the first warm days arrive, you’re ready to move.

Here’s what to focus on.

Start Seeds Indoors (Your Future Garden Begins Here)

Even if your yard is still frozen, you can start growing now — indoors.

This is the perfect time to start:

• Onions & leeks
• Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale
• Perennials (many will bloom their first year!)

If you’ve stored dahlia tubers, pot them up in a cool room to get a head start. Lily bulbs can also be started indoors now.

February is also prime time to:

• Order seeds
• Stock up on seed-starting mix
• Try one new perennial or shrub variety you’ve never grown before

This is where planning meets possibility.

Prune While Plants Are Dormant

Late winter is ideal for pruning. If weather allows, prune:

• Fruit trees
• Berry bushes
• Grapevines
• Ornamental grasses

Pruning now encourages healthier growth and better blooms come spring.

Take a slow walk around your yard and check for winter damage. Broken branches? Loose netting? Burlap that needs tightening? Small fixes now prevent bigger problems later.

Prep the Soil (If the Ground Is Workable)

If we get a mild stretch and the soil isn’t frozen or overly wet, you can begin light prep outdoors.

• Add compost to raised beds
• Remove leftover debris
• Pull early weeds
• Direct sow spinach, lettuce, and peas toward late February

Want to plant even earlier? Use plastic covers or cold frames to gently warm the soil and jumpstart the season.

Clean, Sharpen, and Organize

Before the spring rush hits, take time to reset your tools and space.

• Clean and sharpen pruners, shears, and shovels
• Oil metal tools to prevent rust
• Wash out pots and containers
• Sketch your garden layout
• Create a simple planting calendar

A little organization now makes April feel effortless.

Don’t Forget the Lawn

If snow has melted, inspect your lawn for snow mold (a grayish patchy fungus). Avoid piling snow in the same areas repeatedly, as this can cause damage.

February is also a good time to:

• Test soil if needed
• Apply lime if your lawn requires it

Healthy lawns start with quiet winter maintenance.

The Big Takeaway

February isn’t about big, glamorous garden days.

It’s about preparation.

It’s about intention.

It’s about setting your space up for a season of beauty.

And when spring finally arrives in Pennsylvania — you’ll be ready.