Spring Prep for Victory Gardeners in Northern Alabama

Get your gloves on, people—it's time to get to work!

We’re getting an early taste of spring with these 60-70 degree days, and while winter isn’t officially over, now is the time to get a jumpstart on the season. If you want a thriving, self-sustaining garden this year, don’t wait until it’s too late! Here’s your local timetable for what to tackle in February and March to set yourself up for success.

February Garden Chores

1. Plan Your Garden Layout – Decide what you’ll be growing, rotate crops to prevent disease buildup, and make note of companion planting strategies.

2. Start Seeds Indoors – Now is the time to start tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and herbs like basil and parsley under grow lights or in a sunny window.

3. Prepare Raised Beds & Soil – Remove weeds, add compost, and test soil pH to see if amendments are needed. Adding organic matter now ensures nutrients are ready when planting begins.

4. Plant Cold-Hardy Crops – If you haven’t already, get onions, garlic, and shallots in the ground. You can also direct-sow leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale), peas, radishes, and carrots toward the end of the month.

5. Check & Repair Garden Tools – Sharpen pruners, clean shovels, and make any necessary repairs before heavy use begins.

6. Prepare for Pests – Set up row covers or think about natural deterrents for early pests like aphids and cabbage worms.

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March Garden Chores

1. Harden Off Seedlings – If you started plants indoors, begin hardening them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting.

2. Plant Potatoes & More Early Crops – Mid-to-late February was ideal, but if you haven’t yet, plant your potatoes now! You can also add more spinach, lettuce, and brassicas like cabbage and broccoli.

3. Prune Fruit Trees & Berry Bushes – Late winter is perfect for pruning before spring growth kicks in.

4. Mulch & Weed Control – Applying mulch now helps suppress early weeds and retain soil moisture.

5. Get Watering Systems Ready – Check irrigation, rain barrels, and hoses for leaks or issues before the weather heats up.

6. Fertilize Perennials – If you grow asparagus, strawberries, or fruit trees, give them a boost of compost or organic fertilizer to encourage early growth.

Final Thoughts

A little preparation now goes a long way in making your garden productive and resilient. Don’t let this warm weather lull you into waiting—get your hands in the dirt and set yourself up for a fantastic growing season! What’s on your to-do list this month? Share your progress with the group over in the Garden Swap space!