How do you tell what seeds are good candidates for winter sowing?
Reference the back of the seed packet for terms such as:
- Cold hardy
- Cold stratification
- Perennial
- Hardy Annual
- Direct sow outside in spring
- Self-sewing
Most of the seeds listed here I have winter sown in the past, or I am currently winter sowing. Many more seeds work well in this method.
Annuals
Aster
Bells of Ireland
Calendula
Celosia
Cosmos
Larkspur
Marigold
Morning Glory
Nasturtium
Nigella
Petunia
Snapdragon
Strawflower
Sweet Alyssum
Perennials
Bachelor buttons
Balloon flower
Bee balm
Butterfly weed (milkweed)
Canterbury Bells
Chrysanthemum
Columbine
Cone Flowers
Coreopsis
Creeping Thyme
Daylily
Delphinium
Dianthus
Foxglove
Gaillardia
Lupine
Phlox
Poppy
Rudbeckia
Salvia
Shasta Daisy
Verbena
Viola
Yarrow
Vegetables
Beets
Beets
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Celery
Cucumbers ( sown in LATE) winter
Kale
Kohlrabi
Lettuce
Onions
Pok choy
Radish
Shallots
Spinach
Swiss Chard
Herbs
Chamomile
Chives
Dill
Lavender
Lemon balm
Mint
Mustard
Oregano
Parsley
Rosemary
Sage
Summer Savory
Tarragon
See our Ultimate Guide to Winter Sowing
1 thought on “The Best Seeds for Winter Sowing: A Starter List”