Seed Stories

Winter in the garden often feels like a pause, but it does not have to be an empty one. While the soil outside is cold and heavy, indoors you can quietly begin the growing season. Starting hardy vegetables from seed during winter gives plants time to develop strong roots and makes spring feel far less rushed. For UK gardeners, this early work often leads to healthier plants and earlier harvests — and it brings a bit of green life into the darker months.   Why start vegetables indoors in winter? Starting seeds indoors during winter has a few clear advantages: earlier harvests once spring arrives stronger seedlings with better root systems less pressure during the busy spring sowing period better use of slow-growing varieties It is also simply satisfying to watch something grow when the garden outside is resting 🌿   10 hardy vegetables worth starting indoors 1. Leeks Leeks need a long growing season and respond well to early sowing. sow indoors from January grow on slowly in bright, cool conditions transplant outside in spring   2. Onions (from seed) Growing onions from seed takes patience, but rewards you with strong, well-storing bulbs. start indoors in winter keep compost lightly moist give plenty of light to prevent weak growth   3. Cabbage Cabbage seedlings cope well with cool conditions and are easy to raise indoors. suitable for early sowing transplant once frost risk reduces ideal for small and large gardens   4. Cauliflower Cauliflowers dislike stress, so a steady indoor start makes a big difference. sow thinly to avoid overcrowding keep temperature even plant out carefully in spring   5. Broccoli Broccoli is hardy but benefits from a protected start. indoor sowing reduces early losses strong seedlings are less likely to bolt well suited to the UK climate   6. Brussels sprouts A classic long-season crop that appreciates early attention. start indoors for reliable germination transplant once plants are sturdy slower growth now, better harvest later   7. Kale Kale is forgiving, nutritious and ideal for winter sowing. germinates easily indoors handles cold once planted out harvests can continue well into winter   8. Chard Chard brings colour and productivity to the veg patch. indoor sowing avoids cold, wet soil seedlings establish quickly suitable for beds or containers   9. Spinach Spinach prefers cool conditions but struggles in winter soil. start indoors for better germination transplant once soil warms slightly ideal for early spring harvests   10. Celery or celeriac These are slow growers but worth the effort. sow indoors in warmth and light be patient with germination reward comes later in the season   Tips for successful winter indoor sowing A few simple habits make all the difference: use fresh, peat-free seed compost clean pots and trays before use place seedlings somewhere bright rotate trays to keep growth even label everything clearly Winter light is limited, so even hardy seedlings benefit from careful positioning near a window 💡 A quieter start to the growing year Winter sowing is not about filling every windowsill. It is about choosing a few crops, giving them time, and enjoying the slow beginning of the season. These small actions now lead to calmer, more confident gardening later. Every growing year starts somewhere — often long before the first leaf appears 🌱   Ready to start? If you are planning your winter sowing, explore our collection of hardy vegetable seeds selected for the UK climate. Shop our vegetable seeds and start your growing year gently, one seed at a time.

January may feel quiet in the garden, but behind the scenes it’s one of the most important months of the gardening year. While frost lingers and daylight is short, this is the perfect time to prepare for early seed sowing and set the foundations for a thriving spring. If you garden in the UK, January is all about planning, prepping, and gentle beginnings. 🌱 Why January Matters for UK Gardeners Although outdoor sowing is limited, January gives you a head start that pays off later. Why prepare now? 🌼 Earlier flowers and harvests 🌿 Healthier, stronger seedlings 📅 Less springtime stress 🛒 Better choice of seed varieties before they sell out Searches for “what to plant in January UK” rise every year — and smart gardeners know preparation is key. 🌿 What Seeds Can You Sow in January in the UK? 🌱 Seeds to Sow Indoors or Under Cover With warmth and light, some seeds are happy to start early. Vegetables: Chillies Peppers Aubergines Early tomatoes (with heat) Flowers: Sweet peas (especially for stronger roots) Begonias Lobelia Geraniums (pelargoniums) Top tip:Use a heated propagator or warm windowsill for reliable germination. ❄ Seeds That Benefit from Cold Conditions Some seeds actually need winter chills to germinate well. Cold-tolerant seeds: Hardy perennials Wildflowers Verbena bonariensis Aquilegia This process, called cold stratification, mimics nature and improves success rates. 🧰 Preparing for Early Seed Sowing January is ideal for getting organised before sowing begins. 🪴 Clean & Reuse Seed Trays Wash old pots with warm water Reuse yoghurt pots (add drainage holes) Choose biodegradable pots where possible This supports zero-waste gardening ♻ 🌱 Refresh Your Compost Use fresh, peat-free seed compost for: Better drainage Fewer pests Healthier seedlings Avoid old compost — it often lacks nutrients and structure. 💡 Check Your Light Levels January light is weak in the UK. To prevent leggy seedlings: Use bright windowsills Rotate trays daily Consider grow lights for early sowings 🗂 Plan Your Seed Sowing Calendar Before sowing, take time to plan. Ask yourself: What grew well last year? What do I want more of? Do I have space to start seeds indoors? Create a simple month-by-month sowing list so you know exactly when to start each variety. 🌸 Flowers First: Early Starts for Better Blooms Starting flowers early means: Earlier blooms Longer flowering season Stronger plants overall January flower favourites: Sweet peas Antirrhinums Verbena Perennial wildflowers Perfect for cottage gardens and pollinator-friendly planting 🐝 🥕 Vegetables Worth the Early Effort While most veg wait until spring, some reward early starters. Best early veg seeds: Chillies & peppers Salad leaves (indoors) Microgreens Early tomatoes (with warmth) ♻ Sustainable January Gardening Tips Save leftover seeds in airtight containers Label everything clearly Swap seeds with friends or neighbours Choose open-pollinated varieties for seed saving later January is a great time to garden thoughtfully and sustainably. 📋 January Gardening Checklist ✔ Check seed stock & expiry dates✔ Clean pots and trays✔ Order seeds early✔ Prepare compost✔ Set up indoor growing space✔ Plan sowing dates 🌱 January Is Where the Story Begins Every successful garden starts long before the first leaf appears. January is about intention, patience, and possibility — the quiet start to a season full of life. Take time now, and your future garden will thank you. 🌼 Ready to Start Sowing? Explore our carefully selected UK-friendly seeds, perfect for early sowing and year-round growing. 👉 Shop our Sweet Pea, Chilli & Early Flower seeds today.