January in Ontario isn’t about rushing spring, it’s about getting a smart head start. While snow covers the garden and the ground is frozen solid, a few carefully chosen seeds can be started indoors to set you up for a stronger, earlier, and more productive growing season.
The secret to January seed starting?
Slow growers, patience, and proper lighting.
Why Start Seeds in January?
Some plants simply take a long time to germinate and mature. By starting them early indoors, you give them enough time to develop into healthy, sturdy plants before outdoor conditions are ready.
In Zones 4, 5, and 6, January seed starting is best reserved for:
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Long-season vegetables
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Slow-growing flowers
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Herbs that take their time
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Seeds that require cold stratification
Flowers to Start Indoors in January
Many popular flowers need extra time to grow before they bloom. Starting them in January means fuller plants and earlier colour in the garden.
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Begonia (tuberous & fibrous)
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Geranium (Pelargonium)
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Petunia
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Snapdragons
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Lobelia
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Pansy & Viola
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Verbena
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Lisianthus
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Impatiens
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Delphinium
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Perennial flowers like lavender, echinacea, and rudbeckia
Some perennial seeds benefit from cold stratification, making January an ideal time to start them.
Herbs You Can Start in January
Herbs grow slowly at first but thrive with an early indoor start.
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Parsley
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Chives
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Thyme
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Oregano
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Rosemary
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Sage
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Lavender
With enough light and warmth, these herbs will be well-established by spring.
Vegetables Worth Starting in January
Not all vegetables should be started this early, but a few benefit greatly from a long growing season.
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Onions (from seed)
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Leeks
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Celery
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Celeriac
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Artichokes (best for Zones 5–6)
Onions and leeks are especially well-suited to January sowing and are a favourite among experienced Ontario gardeners.
Seeds That Need Cold Stratification
Some seeds won’t germinate without a period of cold. January naturally provides the perfect conditions.
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Milkweed (native species)
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Echinacea
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Black-eyed Susan
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Lupine
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Columbine
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Penstemon
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Native grasses
These can be sown outdoors in containers or refrigerated for several weeks before moving to warmth.
What Not to Start in January
It’s tempting to start everything early, but some plants grow too fast and will outgrow your indoor space.
Avoid starting:
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Tomatoes
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Peppers
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Cucumbers
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Squash
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Zucchini
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Beans
These are better started in March or April.
Ontario Zone Notes
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Zone 4: Stick strictly to slow-growing plants
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Zone 5: Similar timing, with slight flexibility
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Zone 6: Artichokes and some perennials can be started a bit earlier
Tips for January Seed-Starting Success
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Use grow lights for 12–16 hours per day
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Keep soil warm (heat mats help)
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Bottom-water to avoid damping off
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Label everything: January seedlings look very similar early on
A Quiet Start to a Strong Season
January seed starting isn’t about filling every windowsill; it’s about choosing the right plants and giving them the time they need to thrive. With a little planning now, you’ll be rewarded with healthier plants, earlier harvests, and a smoother spring.
If you’re unsure which seeds are right for your zone or setup, our team is always happy to help you plan your winter sowing.
Spring starts now, one seed at a time. 🌱
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