February and March in the desert southwest are months for planning and planting. In February, it’s still appropriate to continue to seed many of what we consider winter crops – leafy greens such as lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, collards, and carrots, beets, radishes and bok choy. It’s also time to start planning a spring garden.
As you plan, remember to amend your garden soil, especially if you are planting in the same area that held your winter crops. If you don’t use manure and you mix your soil amendments deeply into your existing space, you should be able to plant right after adding amendments. If you use manure, remember to give the area three to four weeks to sit.
When turning your soil, dig to a depth of 10 to 12 inches, to really loosen it. Then spread a four- to six-inch layer of good organic matter – mainly compost – over the area. We also like FoxFarm’s Soil Conditioner because it contains earthworm castings, bat guano and microbes that aid in root development. At this point you can add dry fertilizer such as FoxFarm’s Tomato & Vegetable Organic Fertilizer. Mix the soil and amendments really well and then rake the area to be flat and level. Water thoroughly.
Here’s what you can plant in the later part of the month and through March.
Artichoke (transplants are best)
Corn
Cucumbers
Eggplant (transplants)
Jicama
Melon
Peas
Peppers (transplants)
Potatoes
Summer squash
Tomatoes (transplants)