What to plant in February

February is the threshold of the growing year. Snowdrops bloom, days lengthen, and serious sowing begins under cover. Get beds prepared and start chitting potatoes.

What to sow in February: Tomatoes (heated propagator); Chillies, peppers, aubergines; Onions and leeks; Broad beans (outside under cloche); Lettuce, rocket, spinach (cold frame); Sweet peas.

What to plant in February: Shallots and garlic; Bare-root roses, trees and shrubs; Jerusalem artichokes (end of month).

What to harvest in February: Leeks; Brussels sprouts; Purple sprouting broccoli; Forced rhubarb; Cauliflower.

Key jobs for February: Chit early potatoes; Prune wisteria summer growth; Cut back ornamental grasses and Cornus; Apply mulch to beds and borders; Net brassicas against pigeons.