Why January Is a Wonderful Time to Start Native Perennials from Seed

Starting seeds in step with the season

In Idaho, winter has a rhythm all its own. The garden falls quiet, the soil freezes, and everything above ground seems to rest. But beneath that calm, winter is quietly preparing the landscape for spring. Many of the region’s native perennials depend on that seasonal shift, waiting for winter’s cues before they begin to grow.

That’s why January is such a fitting moment to start native seeds. The timing matches the natural cycle these plants evolved with, and the cold months do much of the work that gardeners would otherwise need to recreate indoors.

Winter gives native seeds what they’re waiting for

Most native perennials require a period of cold, moist stratification—a long stretch of winter conditions that signals it’s safe to germinate when spring arrives. January consistently delivers the combination of cold, light moisture, and freeze–thaw cycles needed for this process.

While winter naturally provides these conditions, some Idaho winters bring long dry spells with very little snow. In those years, outdoor pots may dry more than expected. A quick check every couple of weeks is enough; if the soil surface looks completely dry, a light watering keeps stratification on track. The goal is moisture, not saturation—just enough to maintain a slightly damp environment.

Instead of managing refrigeration or carefully timing artificial cold periods, native seeds can be sown in pots, placed outdoors, and allowed to experience the winter they expect. It’s a simple, climate-aligned approach that mirrors natural patterns.

Outdoor pots make the process simple and reliable

Small nursery pots or cell trays filled with seed-starting mix create an ideal environment for winter stratification. Seeds pressed gently into the surface receive light, moisture, and winter temperature swings without becoming waterlogged. After a single watering to settle the mix, the pots can be placed outdoors where they will catch the weather but remain protected from wind.

This method stays tidy, reduces maintenance, and performs consistently well in the Intermountain West.

Some gardeners also use repurposed containers like milk jugs or clear clamshells.
These can work for certain species as long as moisture and temperature are monitored, especially on sunny winter days.

Freeze–thaw cycles help the seeds awaken

Although winter feels harsh to humans, native seeds rely on the push and pull of freezing and thawing to soften tough seed coats and trigger internal germination signals. Snowmelt or periodic winter moisture provides gentle, steady hydration. As late winter approaches, temperatures warm just enough to cue the seeds that spring is on its way.

Nature handles a process that is difficult to duplicate indoors.

January sowing leads to stronger, more resilient plants

By the time the soil warms in spring, seedlings that began their journey in January are often:

• deeper-rooted
• sturdier and more compact
• better adapted to Idaho’s dry summers
• more tolerant of the transplanting process

Because many natives do not bloom the first year, this early start supports healthier plants heading into their second season.

Direct sowing works too — when the soil allows

Some natives thrive when sown directly into the ground. However, frozen January soil isn’t workable in most parts of Idaho. When a natural thaw arrives—usually in late February or early March—direct sowing becomes an excellent option for species such as:

• common yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
  
• blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata)
• penstemons (Penstemon spp.)
• Idaho fescue (Festuca idahoensis)
• blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis)

Until then, outdoor pots remain the most dependable winter method.

Cold frames and unheated greenhouses offer gentle protection

Cold frames and unheated greenhouses support winter stratification while offering mild protection from wind and wildlife. They moderate sudden warm spells and help maintain even moisture. As long as no heat is added, seeds receive the natural chill required for proper germination.

Native seeds well-suited to a January start

Wildflowers & Forbs

• 
  Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus)
  

• Palmer’s penstemon (Penstemon palmeri)
• Eaton’s penstemon (Penstemon eatonii)
• Narrow-leaf coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
• Pale purple coneflower (Echinacea pallida)
• Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
• Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata)
  
• Showy aster (Eurybia spectabilis)
• Smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
  
• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
• Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
• Prairie smoke (Geum triflorum)
• Lupine (Lupinus spp.)

Native Grasses

• Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis)
• Idaho fescue (Festuca idahoensis)
• Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda)
• 
  Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides)

Native Shrubs

• Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
• Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)
• Woods’ rose (Rosa woodsii)
• Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa / Chrysothamnus nauseosus)

A peaceful January task with a rewarding spring payoff

There is something grounding about sowing native seeds while the landscape rests under winter’s quiet blanket. No urgency, no rush—just a small, hopeful task offered to the season these plants know best.

When seedlings emerge in early spring, right on cue, it becomes clear how well a January start aligns with the natural rhythm of Idaho’s native landscape. Winter sets the stage, and gardeners simply support the process.

Further reading —

https://extension.psu.edu/starting-seeds-in-winter

https://www.hortmag.com/smart-gardening/seed-starting-tips-plus-how-to-care-for-seedlings-

https://www.hortmag.com/smart-gardening/starting-perennial-seeds

https://www.xerces.org/publications/plant-lists

Fungus Gnats- Are these flying around your indoor plants?

Tiny flying pest in my houseplants

fungus gnats life cycle

Fungus Gnats can become a problem on potted house plants, especially during the holiday season because we are bringing in flowering plants from nurseries, big box stores, as well as receiving as gifts. They are difficult to control because of their tiny size and life cycle.

 Here are some effective ways to treat them:

Let the potting soil dry out between watering. The "dry" surface is less attractive to females who are depositing eggs, and if eggs are deposited, they fail to hatch because of lack of moisture. This cultural approach can be very effective.

 Sticky traps really work!

Fly tape or sticky traps. The gnats are drawn to the yellow color. No need to fall for the trap of buying anything with pheromones either. Simply a yellow sticky trap.

Tiny larvae on the soil in houseplant pot

Bt is available (Sold under the names Gnatrol, Mosquito Bits) is very effective in controlling the larvae, is not harmful to beneficials, and approved for organic growers. So easy to use - just sprinkle on the soil in the pot!  Nematodes are also available should you desire biological control.

In severe infestations, you may consider washing the roots and re-potting in fresh soil, or simply spraying a light application of indoor houseplant insecticide. When you use any insecticide, be sure to read and follow all label instructions!  Finish by creating a tent over your plant and secure the bottom with a rubber band. Watch for a couple of weeks to see if there is still activity.  Don't worry about watering because you have created a little greenhouse but keep the plastic from touching the leaves. 

Repurposing Christmas Trees: A Creative & Fun Guide

After the holiday season, many of us are left wondering what to do
with our Christmas trees. Why not repurpose them for a variety of practical and creative uses? From enriching your garden to providing habitat for wildlife, your tree can have many new lives after the holidays are over. Repurposing your tree helps reduce waste, benefits the environment, and can even add some unique touches to your garden.

For the Garden

• 

  Mulch: Shred the tree’s branches and trunk into mulch to spread around trees, shrubs, and garden beds. Pine needles are an excellent mulch because they decompose slowly, helping retain moisture in the soil and reducing weeds.

• Erosion Control: If you have bare slopes or areas prone to runoff, use the branches to prevent erosion. The tree’s structure helps hold the soil in place, especially during heavy rains.

• Wildlife Habitat: Consider leaving the tree whole in your yard. It can provide valuable shelter for birds, squirrels, and other small animals during the winter months. For added benefit, place birdhouses or feeders nearby.

Craft Projects

• Woodworking: The trunk can be repurposed into practical or decorative items. Use it to create small furniture pieces like stools, benches, or even simple garden markers. For smaller pieces, you can carve the wood into candle holders, picture frames, or other craft projects.

• Bird Feeders: Coat pinecones with peanut butter and roll them in birdseed, then hang them on the tree’s branches. This makes an easy and natural bird feeder that attracts local wildlife. Plus, it’s a great way to reuse pinecones, which might otherwise go to waste.

Composting

• 
  Compost Bin: After cutting the tree into smaller pieces, add it to your compost pile. The wood, branches, and needles are rich in carbon, which helps balance the nitrogen in food scraps and accelerates decomposition. This is a natural way to enrich your soil for the next gardening season.

Community Use

• Recycling Programs: Many communities offer Christmas tree recycling, turning trees into wood chips or mulch for public parks and landscaping projects. Look for local recycling programs, which are a simple way to give your tree a second life.

• Fish Habitats: In some areas, trees are submerged in lakes or ponds to provide shelter for fish and other aquatic species. Wildlife and conservation groups often organize these efforts, turning old trees into valuable habitats for marine life.

Use as Firewood

• Firewood: Once dried, the trunk can be cut into smaller logs and used as firewood for outdoor fire pits or wood stoves. Pinewood burns quickly and is great for kindling, but be cautious not to burn it indoors due to the potential for creosote buildup.

• Bonfire Material: The branches and needles can be used to start a backyard bonfire, providing warmth and ambiance during cold evenings or post holiday gatherings.

For Animals

• Goat Feed: Some farms accept old Christmas trees for goat feed, as the pine needles are a nutritious treat. Just make sure the tree has not been treated with chemicals or pesticides.

• Animal Bedding: Shredded branches and pine needles make great bedding for chickens or small pets. The natural material helps insulate outdoor enclosures during the winter months. By recycling your tree, you extend its usefulness and make a positive impact on the environment.

Holiday Gifts for Gardeners: Ideas for the Green Thumbs in Your Life

The holiday season is the perfect time to show the gardeners in your life how much you appreciate their love for growing. Whether they have a sprawling vegetable patch or a cozy indoor garden, thoughtful gifts can bring joy and inspiration. In Idaho, where winters can be long and harsh, gardening gifts that work year-round are especially welcome. Here are some creative and practical ideas for gardeners this holiday season.

Gardening tools are always a practical and thoughtful gift. In a climate like Idaho's, where winters can be particularly cold, a pair of heavy-duty gloves is essential. Look for insulated, waterproof gloves to keep hands warm and dry during winter gardening tasks like pruning or snow removal. Pruning shears are another must-have. A sharp, ergonomic pair helps gardeners trim trees and shrubs during the dormant season. A soil thermometer is also a great gift, allowing gardeners to monitor soil temperatures and know when it’s the right time to plant in the spring.

Indoor gardening gifts are perfect for those who want to continue growing through the winter months. A hydroponic kit is an excellent option for growing fresh herbs, greens, or even small vegetables indoors without soil. These self-watering systems are great for gardeners with limited space, like apartment dwellers. A beautifully illustrated gardening book also makes a thoughtful gift. Whether it's a plant care book or an inspiring guide to indoor gardening, these books offer useful tips and creative ideas for keeping plants healthy through the winter. Many indoor gardeners also appreciate grow lights, especially when natural light is scarce. Adjustable LED grow lights create the ideal environment for plants to thrive indoors, even during Idaho’s dark winter months.

A garden journal is another great gift for the gardener who likes to track their planting, growth progress, and seasonal changes. These journals often include spaces to note weather conditions, plant varieties, and lessons learned, making them a valuable tool for planning future seasons. Plus, they’re a great way for gardeners to reflect on their progress and goals. Look for journals that also have prompts for creative gardening ideas or sketches of their garden layouts.

DIY garden gifts are always a hit and add a personal touch that store-bought items can’t match. One creative idea is making seed bombs. These eco-friendly gifts can be easily made using native wildflower seeds, clay, and compost. They’re perfect for spreading beauty in any garden or gifting to friends. Another fantastic DIY project is upcycled garden markers. You can make personalized markers from old spoons, pieces of wood, or smooth stones. Paint them with plant names or fun designs for a rustic touch.

For a more elaborate DIY project, consider crafting a homemade potting station. You can repurpose old furniture, like an unused table or cabinet, to create a practical work space for repotting plants or storing tools. Add hooks for hanging small tools, shelves for storing pots, or drawers for organizing gardening supplies. It’s a functional and thoughtful gift that any gardener will appreciate. You could also put together a seed starting kit, complete with DIY seed trays made from egg cartons or cardboard boxes, some organic seeds, and a small watering can.

Another meaningful DIY project is creating a garden-themed gift basket. Fill the basket with an assortment of gardening essentials and homemade treasures. Include items like packets of seeds, gardening gloves, small hand tools, and a couple of gardening books for inspiration. Add in some herb-infused oils, dried flowers, plant-based soaps, or even a jar of homemade jam made from last season’s harvest. You could also toss in a hand-crafted bird feeder, a cozy for a favorite plant, or some garden markers. This thoughtful collection brings a touch of the garden indoors, offering warmth and nature's beauty during the colder months.

Whether it’s practical tools, indoor gardening solutions, or personalized DIY creations, these gift ideas will delight any gardener and help them stay connected to their passion, even through Idaho’s cold winter months. The right gift can inspire new gardening projects and prepare them for the next growing season.