Mild Winter Areas

Zones: 7b–9a

These zones experience mild winter weather and are warming quickly in March. Many cool-season crops can be direct sown outdoors. It is also a great time to start warm-season favorites indoors, while keeping frost protection on hand for unexpected cold snaps. And of course, sprouts and microgreens are always in season indoors!

Indoors (fresh harvests):

• Microgreens: peas, broccoli, sunflowers, arugula.
• Sprouts: alfalfa, broccoli, radish, mung
• Herbs & greens under lights: chives, parsley, mint

Crops to start indoors in good light: Cucumber, melons, squash, pumpkin

Transplants to move outdoors (weather permitting - harden first): alyssum, lettuce, basil, okra, zinnia

Crops that can be directly sown outdoors in March (assume intermittent frosts; a low tunnel or row cover makes most of these reliable): Sweet pea, bunching onion, fennel, bean, beet, corn, Swiss chard, marigold, and more

Cover crops: winter rye, fava bean, hairy vetch, red or white clover, and cover crop mixes.

Tip: A critical time to know your average frost-safe date and watch for late frosts. Most homegrown starts should be hardened off for 7 to 10 days to acclimate to outdoor conditions.

Use your USDA zone as a guide. Microclimates matter—coastal/urban spots run warmer; high elevation runs colder. 7b pockets can follow “Mild” recommendations with protection.