If you live in the warm winter frost-free zones of 9b, 10, 11, or 12, the world is your oyster! Because hot summers often make outdoor growing less ideal, winter is a prime time to grow a garden. Try some of these February recommendations.

Warm-weather crops to plant indoors in good light: Basil, cilantro, cucumber, eggplant, marigold, melons, nasturtium, okra, peppers, squash, tomato, watermelon, and zinnia.

Transplants to move outdoors (harden first): Arugula, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, chives, collards, fennel, kale, leek, lettuce, marigold, mustard, spinach, and Swiss chard.

Cool-weather crops that can be directly sown outdoors in February: Beet, bunching onion, cabbage, calendula, carrot, celery, chives, cilantro, collards, cosmos, dill, endive, fava bean, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, marigold, many Asian greens, parsnip, peas, radish, spinach, sunflower, Swiss chard, and turnip.

Cover crops - Unplanted or unplanned ground is best not left bare: Spring cover crop mix, buckwheat, clover, cowpeas, millet, soybeans, and oats.

Tip: Monitor frost warnings and cover with lightweight row cover as needed. Succession-sow every 2–3 weeks. Be proud - the rest of us are jealous!