18 Flower Seeds to Start in January for a Stunning Summer Garden

January might seem early to think about summer flowers, but starting seeds indoors during the winter months offers significant advantages.

By beginning now, you’ll give your plants a crucial head start, allowing for stronger root development and earlier blooms. Indoor seed starting provides better germination rates and lets you control growing conditions like temperature and moisture.

Plus, starting seeds in January means you’ll have robust plants ready to transplant as soon as the danger of frost passes.

This early start is particularly beneficial for slow-growing varieties and gives you access to unique flower varieties not typically found as nursery transplants.

While the winter winds howl outside, you can nurture your future garden in a warm, controlled environment, ensuring your flowers will reach maturity at the perfect time for a spectacular summer display.

1. Sweet Peas

These fragrant climbers need an early start to produce abundant blooms. Soak seeds overnight in water before planting them 1 inch deep in rich, well-draining soil.

Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Sweet peas thrive in full sun and prefer cool temperatures.

Give them support to climb, and they’ll reward you with waves of colorful, perfumed flowers perfect for cutting.

2. Petunias

Start these cheerful bloomers indoors where temperatures stay around 70°F. Scatter the tiny seeds on top of moist seed-starting mix – don’t cover them as they need light to germinate.

Petunias require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to produce their best show. These versatile flowers come in countless colors and work beautifully in beds or containers.

3. Geraniums

These popular summer flowers take 12-16 weeks from seed to bloom. Plant seeds in warm soil around 70-75°F and keep them evenly moist.

Geraniums love sunshine and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Once established, they’re fairly drought-tolerant and will flower continuously with regular deadheading.

4. Snapdragons

These charming spikes of dragon-shaped blooms prefer cool weather for best flowering. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost.

Don’t cover the dust-like seeds – they need light to sprout. Snapdragons flourish in rich, well-draining soil and full sun. They make excellent cut flowers and will bloom again in fall when temperatures cool.

5. Coneflowers

These tough native perennials attract pollinators and provide long-lasting blooms. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil.

Coneflowers need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They’re drought-tolerant once established and don’t need much fertilizer. The dried seed heads provide winter interest and food for birds.

6. Begonias

These shade-loving beauties need an early start indoors. Use a light, well-draining potting mix and keep temperatures around 70°F.

Begonias prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture without getting waterlogged. They’ll bloom continuously from summer through fall with proper care.

7. Delphiniums

These stately spires need 10-12 weeks of growth before outdoor planting. Start seeds in rich, well-draining soil and maintain even moisture.

Delphiniums require full sun and shelter from strong winds. Support their tall stems with stakes as they grow. Regular feeding during the growing season promotes the best blooms.

8. Poppies

These delicate beauties add splashes of vibrant color to gardens. Start seeds indoors in biodegradable pots to minimize transplant shock.

Poppies need well-draining soil and full sun to thrive. They’re drought-tolerant once established and will self-seed readily if allowed.

9. Pansies

Pansies are perfect for starting in January. These cheerful flowers can handle cold weather and will brighten up your garden early in the spring.

To plant pansies, fill seed trays with compost and lightly water. Sprinkle the tiny seeds on top and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep them in a warm spot indoors or in a greenhouse.

Pansies come in many colors, from deep purples to sunny yellows. You can mix and match for a rainbow effect in your flowerbeds or containers.

These hardy plants (Viola x wittrockiana) are great for beginners. They’re easy to grow and don’t need much fuss. Plus, they attract butterflies to your garden!

10. Calendula

Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a cheerful flower you can start in January. These bright blooms come in shades of orange and yellow. They’re easy to grow and quick to germinate.

To plant calendula seeds, fill a tray with moist potting soil. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep them warm and lightly moist. You’ll see sprouts in about 7-10 days.

Calendula flowers attract bees and butterflies to your garden. They’re also edible – try adding the petals to salads for a pop of color! These hardy plants can handle light frost, making them perfect for early spring gardens.

11. Lobelia

Lobelia brings a splash of cool color to your garden with its tiny blue, purple, white, or red flowers. These dainty blooms are perfect for hanging baskets and containers.

To start lobelia seeds indoors, sprinkle them on top of moist seed-starting mix. Don’t cover the seeds, as they need light to grow. Keep the soil damp and warm (65-75°F) for best results.

You can expect to see little seedlings in about 2-3 weeks. Once they’re big enough to handle, transplant them to individual pots. Lobelias love partial shade and regular watering.

These pretty plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making them a great addition to your garden. Start sowing in January for early summer blooms that will brighten up your outdoor space.

12. Sweet Alyssum

Sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) is a charming flower that you can start indoors in January. This low-growing plant produces tiny, fragrant blooms that smell like honey.

To plant sweet alyssum, sow seeds in trays filled with moist potting soil. Lightly press the seeds into the surface, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil damp and warm, around 65-70°F.

You’ll see seedlings emerge in about 5-10 days. Once they have a few true leaves, transplant them to individual pots. In 4-6 weeks, they’ll be ready to move outdoors.

Sweet alyssum attracts bees and butterflies to your garden. It’s also great for borders, rock gardens, or hanging baskets. This easy-care plant thrives in full sun or partial shade.

13. Violas

Violas are charming flowers that can brighten up your winter garden. You can start these seeds indoors in January to get a head start on spring blooms.

To plant violas, fill seed trays with compost and lightly water. Sprinkle the tiny seeds on the surface and gently press them in. Don’t cover them completely, as some viola varieties need light to grow.

Keep your seed trays in a cool, bright spot between 50-65°F. Violas, or Viola x wittrockiana, are tough little plants that can handle cooler temperatures. They’re perfect for adding pops of color to your early spring garden beds or containers.

14. Salvia

Salvia, also known as sage, is a great flower to start in January. These colorful blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.

To plant salvia seeds, lightly press them into moist soil. Keep the soil warm and damp until sprouts appear in 10-14 days.

Salvias come in many varieties, from the bright red Salvia splendens to the purple Salvia farinacea. They’re easy to grow and can handle both heat and humidity.

You’ll love how these flowers add pops of color to your garden from summer through fall. Plus, goldfinches enjoy snacking on the seeds later in the season!

15. Dianthus (Sweet William)

Sweet-William

Dianthus, also known as Sweet William, is a charming flower to start in January. These colorful blooms add a lovely touch to your garden.

Dianthus barbatus seeds are easy to grow. You can sow them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Press the seeds lightly into the soil and keep them moist.

Sweet William prefers full sun but can handle some shade in hot areas. Plant them 12-18 inches apart in well-drained soil.

These flowers attract bees and butterflies to your garden. They come in many bright colors, from white to deep red. You’ll enjoy their frilly petals and sweet scent all summer long.

16. Primula (Primrose)

Primrose

Primroses bring early spring cheer with their bright, cheerful blooms. Start Primula seeds indoors in January for colorful flowers later in the year.

Use a peaty potting mix and barely cover the tiny seeds. They need light to sprout, so a gentle misting of water is enough.

Primroses come in many eye-catching varieties. Try pale yellow common primrose or showy, multicolored auricula for a stunning display.

These flowers attract pollinators and add a pop of color to shady garden spots. Plant them in partial shade and keep the soil moist for best results.

17. Hollyhocks

Hollyhocks

Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) bring towering beauty to your garden. These old-fashioned favorites can reach heights of 6-8 feet.

Start hollyhock seeds indoors in January for summer blooms. Plant them in small pots with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, around 70°F.

You’ll see sprouts in about 10-14 days. Once seedlings have a few true leaves, move them to larger pots.

Hollyhocks attract bees and butterflies to your garden. They come in a range of colors from white to deep purple. These easy-to-grow flowers are perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

18. Larkspur

Larkspur (Delphinium) adds tall spikes of blue, pink, or white flowers to your garden. These eye-catching blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Start larkspur seeds indoors in January for early summer flowers. Sow them in seed trays with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

For better germination, chill the seeds in the fridge for 1-2 weeks before planting. This mimics their natural winter conditions.

Once seedlings appear, place them in a cool, bright spot. Transplant them outside 3-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area.

Tips for Success

Proper Light

  • Use grow lights positioned 2-3 inches above seedlings
  • Provide 14-16 hours of light daily
  • Rotate trays weekly for even growth

Temperature Control

  • Maintain consistent warmth (65-75°F)
  • Use a heat mat for better germination
  • Avoid cold drafts from windows

Moisture Management

  • Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
  • Water from bottom to prevent damping off
  • Use clear dome covers to maintain humidity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

MistakeSolution
Planting too deepCheck seed packet for proper depth
OverwateringAllow soil surface to dry between waterings
Poor air circulationUse a small fan for gentle air movement
Insufficient lightSupplement natural light with grow lights

Remember to label your seed trays and keep records of planting dates. With proper care and attention, these January-sown flowers will provide months of color and enjoyment in your summer garden.