February might still feel like the heart of winter, but for many plants, it’s a critical time to get the nutrients they need for a strong start to spring.
While most plants remain dormant in the colder months, some benefit from a mid-to-late winter feeding to prepare them for the growing season ahead.
Fertilizing the right plants now can encourage healthy root development, promote early growth, and ensure vibrant blooms or lush foliage in the coming months.
However, not all plants need or even tolerate fertilization in February.
Feeding the wrong plants too early can cause weak growth or even damage their roots.
In this guide, we’ll go over the top plants that can benefit from a winter fertilizer boost.
These plants include hardy outdoor varieties as well as houseplants that remain active year-round.
By understanding which plants need feeding and which ones should wait, you’ll set up your garden and indoor greenery for success.
1. Roses: Preparing for a Show-Stopping Bloom
Roses are one of the most beloved flowers in gardens around the world, known for their elegance, fragrance, and timeless beauty.
If you want your roses to put on a spectacular display of blooms in spring and summer, February is a crucial time to give them a boost of nutrients.
Fertilizing your roses now ensures they wake up from dormancy strong and ready to grow as soon as the weather warms.
Why Fertilizing Roses in February Matters
Roses are heavy feeders, meaning they require a steady supply of nutrients to thrive.
During the colder months, they enter a dormant phase, conserving energy until temperatures rise.
However, as February comes around, especially in milder climates, roses begin to prepare for their active growth cycle.
Applying fertilizer at this time helps strengthen their root system, which is essential for producing lush foliage and abundant blooms in the months ahead.
Without the right nutrients early on, your roses may struggle to develop properly, resulting in weak stems and fewer flowers.
By feeding them now, you’re setting the stage for vigorous, healthy plants.
The Best Fertilizer for February Roses
When choosing a fertilizer for your roses in February, look for a balanced or slow-release fertilizer that provides essential nutrients over time.
A fertilizer with an NPK ratio around 10-10-10 or 12-6-6 is ideal for promoting both root growth and leaf development.
Organic options like composted manure, fish emulsion, or bone meal are also great choices, as they enrich the soil naturally while improving its structure.
Applying a layer of compost around the base of your rose bushes can further enhance soil health and retain moisture.
If your roses are in a colder climate where dormancy extends into late February or early March, a slow-release fertilizer will ensure they receive nutrients as soon as they begin to grow again.
How to Fertilize Roses in February
1. Prepare the Soil – Before fertilizing, remove any dead leaves or debris around the base of your rose bushes. This helps prevent diseases and allows nutrients to reach the roots more effectively.
2. Apply the Fertilizer – Sprinkle the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, staying a few inches away from the main stem. If using a liquid fertilizer, dilute it according to the package instructions and pour it gently around the root zone.
3. Water Thoroughly – After fertilizing, water your roses well to help nutrients absorb into the soil. Consistent moisture is key, especially if the weather has been dry.
4. Mulch for Protection – Adding a layer of mulch around your roses helps maintain soil temperature, retains moisture, and prevents weed growth. This extra step will ensure your roses stay protected as they transition into their growing phase.
Final Thoughts on Fertilizing Roses in February
While February may still bring cool temperatures, your roses are beginning to prepare for their active growing season.
Fertilizing now gives them the nutrients they need to establish strong roots and support healthy new shoots.
With proper feeding, watering, and care, your roses will reward you with breathtaking blooms and lush foliage as the season progresses.
By taking action this month, you’re ensuring your roses will flourish when spring finally arrives.
2. Citrus Trees: Fueling Fruit Growth and Flowering
Citrus trees, whether they’re lemons, oranges, limes, or grapefruits, need the right nutrients at the right time to produce juicy, flavorful fruit.
February is an essential month for citrus trees because it marks the beginning of their active growth and fruit-setting period.
By fertilizing now, you’ll help ensure a strong, healthy tree that produces an abundant harvest later in the year.
Why Citrus Trees Need Fertilizer in February
Citrus trees are evergreen, meaning they don’t go fully dormant in winter like some other fruit trees.
However, their growth slows down in the cooler months.
As temperatures begin to rise in late winter, citrus trees start developing new leaves, flowers, and, eventually, fruit.
Without proper nutrients at this stage, their growth may be weak, and their fruit production could suffer.
Applying fertilizer in February gives citrus trees the strength they need to support flowering and fruit development.
Without it, they might produce smaller, less flavorful fruit or struggle to bloom at all.
Choosing the Right Fertilizer for Citrus Trees
Citrus trees require a well-balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), along with micronutrients like magnesium, calcium, and iron.
Look for a fertilizer labeled specifically for citrus, as these are designed to meet the tree’s nutritional needs.
A 3-1-1 or 2-1-1 NPK ratio is often recommended for citrus trees.
Slow-release fertilizers are an excellent choice because they provide nutrients over an extended period, ensuring steady growth.
Organic options like fish emulsion, seaweed extract, and composted manure can also improve soil health while nourishing your tree.
How to Fertilize Citrus Trees in February
1. Measure the Right Amount – The amount of fertilizer needed depends on the tree’s size and age. Younger trees (1-3 years old) need less fertilizer than mature trees. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper application rates.
2. Apply Around the Drip Line – Instead of placing fertilizer directly at the base of the trunk, spread it evenly around the drip line (the area beneath the outermost branches). This is where the roots actively absorb nutrients.
3. Water Deeply – After applying fertilizer, water thoroughly to help the nutrients soak into the soil and reach the roots.
4. Repeat as Needed – Depending on the type of fertilizer you use, you may need to reapply every 6-8 weeks throughout the growing season.
Extra Tips for Healthy Citrus Trees
- Watch for Yellowing Leaves – If your citrus tree’s leaves are turning yellow, it may be lacking nitrogen or iron. A fertilizer rich in these nutrients can help restore its color.
- Protect from Late Winter Frosts – If you live in a cooler climate, keep an eye on the weather. Cover your tree with frost cloth if a cold snap is expected.
- Prune After Fertilizing – Late winter or early spring is a good time to remove dead or weak branches to encourage healthier growth.
The Reward: Juicy, Flavorful Citrus
By fertilizing your citrus trees in February, you’re providing them with the essential nutrients they need to produce fragrant blossoms and delicious fruit.
A well-fed citrus tree is more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stress.
With just a little effort now, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, productive tree that yields juicy, flavorful citrus for months to come.
3. Indoor Houseplants: Giving a Winter Boost to Active Growers
Indoor houseplants bring life and freshness to any home, especially during the winter months when outdoor gardens are dormant.
While many houseplants slow their growth in winter, some remain active, continuing to put out new leaves and roots even in the colder months.
For these plants, February is a great time to provide a light but effective dose of nutrients to keep them thriving.
Why Fertilizing Houseplants in February Matters
Many houseplants don’t go into full dormancy like outdoor plants, but their growth rate slows due to shorter days and lower light levels.
However, if you keep your home warm and provide consistent lighting, some plants will continue growing through winter.
These actively growing houseplants benefit from a mild feeding in February to prevent nutrient deficiencies and encourage steady development.
Without proper nutrients, you might notice pale leaves, weak stems, or slower growth.
Fertilizing now helps your plants maintain their health so they can enter spring strong and ready for more vigorous growth.
Which Houseplants Benefit from Fertilizing in February?
Not all houseplants need fertilizer in winter.
It’s best to focus on those that are still showing signs of growth.
Some houseplants that benefit from winter feeding include:
- Tropical plants like monsteras, pothos, and philodendrons
- Flowering houseplants such as African violets and peace lilies
- Fast-growing plants like spider plants, ferns, and ivy
- Citrus trees and other indoor fruiting plants
If your plant is completely dormant (no new leaves or growth), it’s best to wait until March or April before feeding.
Best Fertilizer for Indoor Plants in February
Since houseplants don’t need as much fertilizer in winter as they do in spring and summer, using a diluted liquid fertilizer is the best approach.
A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 works well for most houseplants.
If you prefer organic options, diluted fish emulsion, seaweed extract, or compost tea are excellent choices.
For flowering houseplants, a fertilizer higher in phosphorus (middle number in the NPK ratio) can encourage better blooms.
How to Fertilize Houseplants in February
1. Dilute the Fertilizer – Use half the recommended strength listed on the package to avoid overfeeding.
2. Apply to Damp Soil – Never fertilize dry soil, as this can burn the roots. Water the plant lightly before applying fertilizer.
3. Use Every 4-6 Weeks – Since plants aren’t growing as quickly in winter, they don’t need frequent feedings. A light application once a month is usually enough.
4. Check for Signs of Overfeeding – If you see brown leaf tips or a white crust forming on the soil, reduce fertilization.
Keeping Your Houseplants Happy Through Winter
Besides fertilizing, ensure your houseplants are getting enough light and humidity.
Consider rotating them for even light exposure and misting plants that prefer higher humidity, like ferns and calatheas.
By giving your indoor plants the right balance of care, they will remain healthy and strong, ready for a new burst of growth in spring.
4. Cool-Season Vegetables: Supporting Early Spring Harvests
February is a key time for cool-season vegetables, especially if you live in a mild climate or have a greenhouse.
Many early-spring crops start growing in late winter, and providing the right nutrients now will help them develop strong roots and produce healthy yields.
Why Fertilizing Cool-Season Vegetables in February is Important
Cool-season vegetables thrive in lower temperatures, but their growth still depends on having the right nutrients in the soil.
Fertilizing in February ensures that plants get a steady supply of essential minerals as they begin their early-season development.
Without proper feeding, they may struggle with weak stems, smaller leaves, and lower yields.
For gardeners in warmer zones (Zones 7-10), some cool-season vegetables may already be in the ground and growing.
For those in colder regions, February is a great time to prepare the soil and add nutrients before planting.
Which Cool-Season Vegetables Need Fertilizing?
Several vegetables benefit from fertilization in February, including:
- Leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, and kale
- Root crops such as carrots, radishes, and beets
- Brassicas like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts
- Peas and onions, which start growing in late winter
These plants need an early nutrient boost to establish strong roots before the weather warms up.
Best Fertilizers for Cool-Season Vegetables
Cool-season vegetables thrive with fertilizers rich in nitrogen (N) for leaf growth and phosphorus (P) for strong roots.
For leafy greens and brassicas, a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-5-5 or 12-6-6 is ideal.
For root vegetables like carrots and beets, a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer (5-10-10) will promote better root formation.
Organic options, such as compost, aged manure, or fish emulsion, also work well and improve soil structure.
How to Fertilize Cool-Season Vegetables in February
1. Test the Soil First – Before adding fertilizer, check your soil’s nutrient levels with a soil test. This prevents overfeeding and ensures you’re adding the right nutrients.
2. Apply a Slow-Release Fertilizer – If planting from seeds, mix a slow-release organic fertilizer into the soil before sowing. For existing plants, side-dress them with compost or granular fertilizer.
3. Water After Fertilizing – Watering helps dissolve the nutrients and carry them to the roots. Avoid overwatering, as this can wash away nutrients too quickly.
4. Feed Again as Needed – Some vegetables, like kale and lettuce, benefit from additional feedings every 4-6 weeks for continuous growth.
Additional Tips for Growing Cool-Season Vegetables
- Protect seedlings from frost by using row covers or cold frames if temperatures drop too low.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Keep an eye on pests, as aphids and cabbage worms can still be active in late winter.
Harvesting the Rewards of Winter Feeding
By fertilizing cool-season vegetables in February, you give them a strong start for early-spring growth.
Healthy, well-fed plants will produce more abundant harvests, providing you with fresh, homegrown food before summer even begins.
5. Perennial Flowers: Encouraging Strong Roots for the Season Ahead
Perennial flowers bring beauty and structure to gardens year after year, but their success depends on a strong root system.
February is an important time to give these plants the nutrients they need to break dormancy and start growing once temperatures rise.
By fertilizing now, you’re setting them up for vibrant blooms and lush foliage throughout the growing season.
Why Fertilizing Perennials in February is Beneficial
Unlike annuals, which complete their life cycle in one season, perennials return each year from their root system.
During winter, these plants rest in dormancy, conserving energy until conditions improve.
However, as daylight hours increase in February, perennials start preparing for new growth.
Giving them a balanced fertilizer at this stage strengthens their roots and encourages healthy foliage production.
A well-fed perennial is more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stress, ensuring it flourishes once spring arrives.
Which Perennials Benefit from February Fertilization?
Certain perennials benefit greatly from early-season fertilization, especially those that bloom in spring and summer.
Some of the best candidates for February feeding include:
- Peonies – These long-lived plants need strong roots for large, showy flowers.
- Daylilies – Early feeding helps them produce more flower stalks.
- Coneflowers (Echinacea) – Fertilizing now encourages strong stems and more blooms in summer.
- Hostas – These shade-loving perennials appreciate an early nutrient boost for lush leaves.
- Irises – Feeding in late winter strengthens their rhizomes for bigger, healthier blooms.
Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Perennial Flowers
Perennials do well with a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer, depending on their needs.
A general-purpose 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 fertilizer provides essential nutrients for root, leaf, and flower development.
For organic options, bone meal, compost, and well-rotted manure enrich the soil while improving its structure.
Slow-release fertilizers are a great choice, as they provide a steady supply of nutrients over time without overwhelming the plant.
How to Fertilize Perennials in February
- Check the Soil First – If the ground isn’t frozen, gently loosen the topsoil to help nutrients penetrate.
- Apply Fertilizer Evenly – Sprinkle granules around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with stems.
- Water to Activate Nutrients – Lightly water after fertilizing to help nutrients reach the roots.
- Mulch for Protection – Adding mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature as plants wake up from dormancy.
Extra Tips for Healthy Perennials
- Divide overgrown perennials in early spring to prevent overcrowding.
- Remove dead foliage from last season to reduce disease risk.
- Monitor for early pests as temperatures rise, especially in warmer regions.
A Flourishing Garden Begins Now
Fertilizing perennials in February gives them the strength to emerge from dormancy and thrive in the months ahead.
A little effort now leads to more vibrant blooms, stronger stems, and a garden that flourishes year after year.
Final Thoughts
Fertilizing the right plants in February is a simple yet powerful way to ensure a healthy and productive growing season.
By providing essential nutrients at the right time, you help roses bloom magnificently, citrus trees produce flavorful fruit, houseplants stay lush, cool-season vegetables thrive, and perennials grow strong.
Each plant has unique needs, but with the right approach, you can give them a solid foundation for the months ahead.
Remember to choose the appropriate fertilizer, apply it correctly, and adjust your care routine based on your plant’s growth cycle.
Gardening success starts long before spring arrives, and February is the perfect time to take action.
With just a little planning and care, your plants will reward you with stunning flowers, fresh vegetables, and lush greenery in the coming months.
Start fertilizing now, and enjoy a season of thriving, beautiful plants!