Shoots of green are beginning to appear everywhere, promising that the uplifting colours of spring are just around the corner. Those who diligently planted bulbs in the autumn will soon be rewarded with hyacinths, daffodils and tulips, but for now, delicate, petite snowdrops are the stars of the show. While you’re waiting for your own garden to bloom, indoor-grown British tulips are now available too.

In terms of seasonal eating, forced rhubarb season is in full swing. Steeped in heritage and tradition, Yorkshire forced rhubarb, recognised by Slow Food UK, offers a pop of fuchsia pink to brighten the winter days. The sweeter stems of this early rhubarb crop help fill the long gap for fresh produce between winter and spring. Below, you’ll find a list of the best seasonal vegetables available this month and ideas for savouring the season in February.

What produce is in season in February?

Seasonal vegetables available in February include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, celeriac, chicory, Jerusalem artichokes (also known as sunchokes), kale, kohlrabi, shallots, turnips, leeks, parsnips, potatoes (maincrop), purple sprouting broccoli, salsify and swede. There’s plenty of hearty root vegetables to add bulk to stews and casseroles, while leeks make the perfect pairing with various cheeses, lemon and mushrooms. Jerusalem artichokes are one of the more unusual on the list. Extremely knobbly and rather unattractive on first glance, Jerusalem artichokes are actually a great alternatives to potatoes. They’re sweet and nutty, plus, after a good scrub, there’s no need to remove the skin, which helps reduce waste.

And of course, as we’ve already mentioned, cheerful forced rhubarb is in season and generally available until the end of March.

February recipe spotlight

Slow, seasonal activities to enjoy in February

• As nature begins to emerge from its wintery slumber, it’s time to head out into the garden and start preparing for the spring. From pruning back roses to clearing leaves, there’s plenty to do at this time of year. Just pick a day when the ground has thawed. It’s also time to order new seeds to sow over the coming months.
• British grown tulips become available this month. These tend to be grown under cover, while we’ll have to wait a little longer for those in our gardens. Why not support slow flower growers rather than buy imported blooms? We love Smith & Munson for their beautiful tulip varieties which are delivered without plastic packaging. British grown tulips are a fantastic seasonal alternative to out of season Valentine’s roses, too.
• With Pancake Day also taking place this month, stewed forced rhubarb could be a new topping to try.
• Pot up some small spring bulbs and green moss to make a seasonal centrepiece. Vintage pots and vintage dough bowls make for perfect vessels.

For more inspiration on savouring and styling with the season, head to our February Pinterest board: