What to Plant in January
Milwaukee, WI · Zone 5b
Last frost: Apr 25
Frost-free days: 173
The garden is dormant outdoors, but it's time to start planning and get seed orders in. Some long-season crops like peppers and onions can be started indoors this month.
January at a Glance
Indoor
Transplant
Direct Sow
1
5
10
15
20
25
Chives
Parsley
Brussels Sprouts
Leek
Onion
Start Indoors 5
Start these seeds indoors under grow lights or on a sunny windowsill.
Plant now
Brussels Sprouts
Jan 1 – Mar 8
1 per sq ft
80–110 days
Leek
Jan 9 – Mar 31
4 per sq ft
90–150 days
Onion
Jan 9 – Apr 8
9 per sq ft
100–120 days
Later this month
Chives
Jan 24 – Apr 23
9 per sq ft
60–90 days
Parsley
Jan 24 – May 23
4 per sq ft
70–90 days
January Gardening Tips
- Start Brussels Sprouts, Leek, Onion indoors now to give them a head start before transplanting outside.
- Check seed starting supplies — grow lights, heat mats, and fresh seed-starting mix. Order seeds early for the best selection.
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