Winter sowing turns the quiet months into a head start, letting seeds wake naturally under snow and cold rather than waiting for spring warmth indoors. The right varieties don’t just survive freezing temperatures — they use them to trigger stronger germination, deeper root systems, and earlier blooms that catch the season by surprise.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I spend my time digging through germination data, comparing seed genetics, studying cold-stratification requirements, and synthesizing feedback from hundreds of home gardeners to find what actually works when the mercury drops.
Whether you’re filling a meadow, planting a cutting garden, or growing winter vegetables through frost, choosing the right seeds makes all the difference. Through careful analysis of germination data and owner feedback, I’ve identified the best plants for winter sowing for reliable cold-season performance.
How To Choose The Best Plants For Winter Sowing
Winter sowing demands a different approach than spring planting. Seeds must endure freezing temperatures, snow cover, and shorter daylight hours while still delivering strong germination when conditions improve. The right selection depends on understanding cold tolerance, growth habit, and the specific needs of your region.
Cold Stratification Requirements
Many perennial wildflowers and native plants require a period of cold, moist stratification to break dormancy. Winter sowing naturally provides this cycle — seeds experience freezing and thawing that softens seed coats and triggers sprouting. Look for species like purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, lupine, and milkweed that evolved to germinate after winter exposure. Annuals like cosmos, zinnia, and marigold generally do not need cold treatment and may rot if sown too early.
Perennial vs. Annual Flower Mixes
Perennial varieties return year after year, making them ideal for winter sowing because they establish root systems slowly through cold months and burst into growth each spring. Annuals bloom the first season but must be replanted. The best winter-sowing seed blends combine both types — annuals provide first-year color while perennials build long-term meadow structure. Check the label for the ratio of perennial to annual seeds before purchasing.
Vegetable and Cover Crop Options
Cold-hardy vegetables like kale, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, beets, radishes, and sugar snap peas tolerate frost and can be sown in late fall or late winter for early harvests. Cover crops such as winter cereal rye suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion during cold months while adding organic matter when turned under in spring. These crops are not intended to overwinter but to provide soil benefits or early produce.
Seed Quantity and Coverage Area
Seed packets vary wildly in count — from a few hundred to over 200,000 seeds. Consider the size of your planting area before choosing. A 1-ounce packet covers roughly 100 square feet at recommended density, while 4-ounce bags can cover 300–600 square feet. Larger quantities offer better value for expansive meadows but may overwhelm small garden beds. Always check the coverage specification on the label.
Germination Rate and Seed Freshness
High germination rates (90% or above) mean fewer bare spots and more vigorous plants. Seeds stored in moisture-proof, resealable packaging maintain viability longer. Look for lab-tested germination claims and packaging that includes a production date or expiration year. Older seeds lose potency, especially after exposure to heat or humidity — a critical factor when seeds will sit in cold soil for weeks before sprouting.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLANTMEW 200K+ Wildflower Mix | Perennial Mix | Expansive pollinator meadows | 200,000+ seeds, 16 varieties, 4 oz | Amazon |
| Organo Republic 16 Perennial Mix | Perennial Mix | Year-round color with minimal replanting | 100,000+ seeds, 16 varieties, 4 oz | Amazon |
| LUOJIBIE 25+ Variety Mix | Annual/Perennial | Diverse habitat gardens | 89,400+ seeds, 25+ varieties, 3 oz | Amazon |
| Tactiko Garden 26 Variety Mix | Annual/Perennial | Large-area coverage | 120,000+ seeds, 26 varieties, 4 oz | Amazon |
| Gardeners Basics Cool Weather Veggies | Vegetable Mix | Winter & early spring harvests | 8 varieties, sugar snap pea, carrot, beet, kale | Amazon |
| Apexmode Premium Winter Veggies | Vegetable Mix | Diverse winter vegetable garden | 12 varieties, organic non-GMO heirloom | Amazon |
| HOME GROWN Monarch Butterfly Mix | Pollinator Mix | Monarch habitat & biodiversity | 20,000+ seeds, milkweed-rich mix | Amazon |
| SWEET YARDS Drought Tolerant Mix | Wildflower Mix | Dry, low-maintenance areas | 7,500+ seeds, 21 species, 1 oz | Amazon |
| EquSym Hollyhock Seeds | Perennial Flower | Cottage gardens & fence lines | 3,000+ seeds, mixed colors, 6-8 ft tall | Amazon |
| Mountain Valley Winter Cereal Rye | Cover Crop | Soil protection & green manure | 1 lb, ~8,000 seeds, cold-hardy annual | Amazon |
| EarthBox Container Gardening System | Growing System | Self-watering winter containers | 3-gal reservoir, UV-stabilized, 29″L x 13.5″W | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. PLANTMEW 200,000+ Wildflower Seeds 16 Variety Perennial Mix
This 4-ounce perennial blend from PLANTMEW packs over 200,000 seeds across 16 hand-selected varieties — purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, blue flax, Shasta daisy, and more — all sourced from a family-owned U.S. farm. The resealable, moisture-proof pouch keeps seeds viable for up to three years, which matters when you’re sowing across multiple cold seasons. Lab-tested germination rates and an included online guide remove guesswork for first-time winter sowers.
What sets this mix apart for cold-season planting is the perennial-heavy composition. Species like purple coneflower and blue flax require cold stratification to break dormancy, making them ideal candidates for winter sowing. Customers report sprouts emerging within two days of soil contact in many cases, with rapid establishment even in marginal soil. The 4-ounce volume covers substantial ground without forcing you to buy multiple packets.
The blend is designed to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while supporting local biodiversity across all USDA zones. Annual replanting is not required — perennials return each spring with progressively larger root systems and more blooms. For gardeners who want a single, high-volume purchase that delivers first-year flowers and long-term meadow structure, this mix delivers exceptional value.
What works
- Massive seed count covers large areas without multiple purchases
- Perennial-dominant blend returns year after year with minimal effort
- Resealable pouch preserves freshness across multiple sowing seasons
- High germination rate reported even in less-than-ideal soil conditions
What doesn’t
- Package described as smaller than expected relative to seed count claims
- Some seeds may need frost exposure to trigger full germination
2. Organo Republic 16 Perennial Wildflower Seeds Mix
Organo Republic’s 4-ounce perennial mix contains 100,000+ non-GMO, heirloom seeds spanning 16 varieties including white yarrow, columbine, New England aster, Siberian wallflower, Shasta daisy, lance-leaf coreopsis, sweet William, purple coneflower, blanketflower, gayfeather, blue flax, lupine, dwarf evening primrose, Mexican hat, prairie coneflower, and black-eyed Susan. Each variety is individually bagged inside the resealable outer pouch with its own QR code linking to specific growing instructions — a level of organization that makes winter sowing planning far more manageable.
This mix is explicitly designed for both indoor and outdoor winter sowing across North America. The perennial focus means these species naturally require cold stratification, so exposing them to freezing temperatures during winter months actually improves germination rates. Customers note fast sprouting — roughly one week — with impressive multi-color blooms that change appearance every few days once established. The resealable bag holds enough seed density for generous coverage across borders, pathways, or meadow sections.
Every batch is germination-tested before packaging and sealed to maintain viability for up to three years. The family-owned U.S. business prioritizes seed purity and genetic diversity, avoiding fillers or low-germination varieties commonly found in cheaper blends. For gardeners who value organization, traceability, and a proven perennial foundation for winter-sown landscapes, this mix represents a thoughtfully engineered choice.
What works
- Individual seed bags with QR-coded growing guides for each variety
- Perennial species naturally benefit from cold stratification
- Lab-tested germination with resealable packaging for multi-year use
- Family-owned U.S. source with strong quality control standards
What doesn’t
- Some customers reported no germination from their batch
- Premium price point compared to bulk wildflower blends
3. LUOJIBIE Wildflower Seeds Mix 25+ Varieties
LUOJIBIE’s 3-ounce mix delivers 89,400+ open-pollinated, non-GMO seeds across 25+ annual, biennial, and perennial varieties — including zinnia mix, cosmos mix, snapdragon mix, morning glory mix, milkweed (Asclepias), black-eyed Susan, sunflower, lavender, purslane, French marigold, and cornflower. The inclusion of milkweed species makes this a strong choice for monarch butterfly conservation, as caterpillars require Asclepias foliage to develop. The blend covers roughly 380 square feet at recommended density.
What makes this mix perform well in winter sowing scenarios is the diversity of life cycles. Annuals like cosmos and zinnia provide fast, first-season color while biennials and perennials like black-eyed Susan and milkweed establish slowly through cold months and return in subsequent years. Customers report that the mix germinates gradually into a diverse range of shapes, heights, and colors, creating a natural meadow aesthetic rather than a uniform flower bed. The milkweed component attracts pollinators consistently once established.
The 3-ounce bag is described as generously filled with minimal filler material — a common complaint with cheaper blends. Planting instructions are included along with USDA zone recommendations. For gardeners seeking a high-variety, ecologically conscious blend that supports both immediate visual impact and long-term habitat development, this mix balances diversity with practicality.
What works
- 25+ varieties provide exceptional biodiversity for pollinator habitats
- Includes milkweed species critical for monarch butterfly life cycles
- Gradual, natural-looking germination creates meadow aesthetics
- Good value for the seed count and variety range offered
What doesn’t
- Annual varieties may not survive harsh winter soil conditions
- Some weed content possible if existing garden soil is not prepared
4. Tactiko Garden 26 Wildflower Seeds Mix
Tactiko’s 4-ounce resealable Mylar bag holds 120,000+ seeds across 26 carefully curated annual and perennial varieties — including aster, baby’s breath, basil, calendula, candytuft, bachelor’s button, coreopsis, cosmos, five-spot, sweet William, partridge pea, phacelia, California poppy, Shirley poppy, sweet alyssum, Siberian wallflower, zinnia, black-eyed Susan, blanketflower, yellow prairie coneflower, lance-leaved coreopsis, flax, lupine, red Mexican hat, prairie clover, and purple coneflower. The waterproof, rodent-proof packaging ensures seeds remain viable even if stored in damp sheds or garages through winter.
The blend is engineered for dense coverage of 300–600 square feet, depending on how heavily you sow. Annuals provide quick first-year gratification while perennials build a foundation that returns each spring. Customers praise the exceptionally high germination rate — many report seeing green within days of scattering, with rapid filling of bare garden spaces. The mix is specifically formulated to attract honeybees, native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a strong choice for pollinator-focused winter sowing projects.
U.S.-grown and harvested, the seeds include a simple planting guide that makes the process accessible for beginners and children. The resealable bag allows for multiple planting sessions across the winter and spring. For gardeners who want a single, cost-effective purchase that covers a large area with both quick color and lasting perennials, this mix delivers strong coverage per dollar spent.
What works
- Very high germination rate reported in diverse soil types
- Waterproof, rodent-proof Mylar bag protects seeds during storage
- Covers 300-600 sq ft — excellent value for large areas
- Annual + perennial blend provides first-year color and long-term returns
What doesn’t
- Bag size appears smaller than expected for the seed count
- Some varieties may require careful soil preparation for optimal germination
5. Gardeners Basics Winter, Fall, and Spring Vegetable Seeds
Gardeners Basics offers an 8-variety cool-weather seed collection specifically curated for early spring, fall, and winter gardens — sugar snap peas, carrots, cabbage, beets, romaine lettuce, radishes, broccoli, and kale. Each variety is packaged in professional, water-resistant seed packets rather than plastic bags, which prevents the mold issues common with lesser brands. The set also includes 8 free plant markers to help track what you’ve sown and where — a small but practical touch for winter sowing organization.
What makes this collection a standout for cold-season planting is the seed selection itself. Sugar snap peas, kale, broccoli, and cabbage are among the most frost-tolerant vegetables you can grow, often surviving temperatures in the low 20s once established. Customers report that carrots and beets germinated strongly even when planted in cold soil, with Thanksgiving-harvest carrots becoming a repeat success story. One gardener planted these in the middle of winter — ice and snow on the ground — and saw germination within weeks.
All seeds are heirloom, non-GMO, and grown in the USA. The company backs the product with a full satisfaction guarantee, which reduces the risk of investing in a winter sowing trial. For vegetable gardeners who want a thoughtfully assembled cool-weather seed pack that performs reliably under frost conditions, this set combines practicality with intelligent variety selection.
What works
- Frost-tolerant vegetable varieties proven in winter sowing conditions
- Water-resistant packaging prevents seed mold during cold storage
- Free plant markers simplify organization across multiple beds
- Full satisfaction guarantee reduces risk for first-time winter sowers
What doesn’t
- Some seed varieties showed inconsistent germination rates
- No expiration date printed on individual seed packets
6. Apexmode Premium Winter Vegetable Seeds 12 Varieties
Apexmode’s 12-variety winter vegetable collection includes radish, pea, broccoli, beet, carrot, cauliflower, green bean, kale, arugula, cabbage, asparagus, and Brussels sprout — all certified organic, non-GMO, and untreated with a guaranteed 92% minimum germination rate. The seeds are individually packaged to maintain freshness and organization, with each packet clearly labeled for quick identification during winter sowing sessions. This is one of the most comprehensive cool-weather vegetable collections available in a single purchase.
The variety range covers almost every frost-tolerant vegetable category: leafy greens (kale, arugula, cabbage), root vegetables (carrot, beet, radish), legumes (pea, green bean), and brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprout). Customers report that all winter seeds germinated successfully except for asparagus, which naturally has a longer and more variable germination window. The organic certification adds confidence for growers who prioritize chemical-free produce, especially important when vegetables will be consumed raw from the garden.
These seeds are suitable for planting from early spring through late fall, with harvests extending into winter months in many climates. The 12-packet format makes this an excellent gift for gardening family members or a comprehensive starter kit for someone new to winter vegetable growing. For gardeners who want organic, high-germination seeds across a broad range of cold-hardy vegetables, this collection removes the hassle of buying individual packets.
What works
- Organic certification and 92% guaranteed germination rate
- 12 varieties cover nearly all frost-tolerant vegetable categories
- Individually packaged seeds stay fresh and organized
- Excellent gift value for winter-sowing vegetable gardeners
What doesn’t
- Asparagus seeds showed lower germination in customer reports
- Some varieties may need specific soil temperatures for best results
7. HOME GROWN Premium Monarch Butterfly Wildflower Seeds Mix
This 2-ounce mix from HOME GROWN delivers 20,000+ non-GMO, heirloom seeds specifically formulated to support monarch butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. The blend includes butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), smooth blue aster, Siberian wallflower, cosmos sensation, sulphur cosmos, larkspur, purple coneflower, annual gaillardia, gayfeather, marigold, Mexican sunflower, hoary vervain, and zinnia. The milkweed component is critical — it serves as the exclusive host plant for monarch caterpillars, making this mix a conservation tool as much as a garden product.
For winter sowing, the perennial milkweed species are particularly well-suited because they require cold stratification to break dormancy. Planting these seeds in fall or late winter allows natural freeze-thaw cycles to soften the seed coat, leading to stronger spring germination. Customers report quick greenery and flower development, with butterflies arriving as soon as blooms open. The mix creates layered displays from 6 inches to 6 feet tall, with season-long color from spring through fall.
The package includes a bonus online grow guide with detailed sowing instructions, making it accessible for beginners. The company emphasizes pollinator conservation and garden biodiversity, positioning this mix as both an ornamental choice and an ecological contribution. For gardeners who want their winter sowing efforts to directly support monarch butterfly populations while enjoying vibrant, nectar-rich blooms, this mix delivers on both fronts.
What works
- Milkweed varieties provide essential monarch caterpillar habitat
- Perennial species benefit from cold stratification during winter sowing
- Quick germination and rapid growth reported by multiple customers
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the season
What doesn’t
- Annual varieties may not survive harsh winter conditions
- Milkweed can be aggressive in small, manicured garden spaces
8. SWEET YARDS Drought Tolerant Wildflowers Mix
SWEET YARDS offers an extra-large 1-ounce packet containing 7,500+ open-pollinated, non-GMO seeds across 21 dryland-adapted species — bachelor’s button, Siberian wallflower, Shasta daisy, plains coreopsis, sweet William, African daisy, purple coneflower, California poppy, perennial gaillardia, Indian blanket, showy baby’s breath, spurred snapdragon, blue flax, sweet alyssum, evening primrose, corn poppy, Rocky Mountain penstemon, prairie coneflower, black-eyed Susan, gloriosa daisy, and catchfly. This mix is designed to cover 100 square feet and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
The dryland focus makes this mix uniquely suited for winter sowing in regions with cold, dry winters or sandy, fast-draining soils. Species like California poppy, blue flax, and purple coneflower naturally tolerate both cold stratification and drought stress, making them resilient choices for exposed winter-sown beds. Customers report that seeds sprout readily with simple scattering and light soil coverage, though one reviewer noted zero germination — a reminder that even well-formulated mixes can have batch variability.
The premium packaging includes a reusable zipper seal designed for optimal seed storage, with full planting instructions printed on the packet. The blend produces flowers in multiple colors from spring through fall, with plant heights reaching up to 4 feet. For gardeners in drier climates or those seeking a low-water, cold-tolerant wildflower mix that establishes quickly, this is a practical and budget-friendly choice.
What works
- Drought-tolerant species ideal for dry, cold-winter climates
- Large 1-ounce packet covers 100 sq ft at recommended density
- Reusable zipper packaging preserves seed viability between sowings
- 21 species provide good color and textural diversity
What doesn’t
- Germination variability reported — some batches may have low rates
- Dryland species may underperform in wet, heavy clay soils
9. EquSym Hollyhock Seeds 3000+ Bulk Pack
EquSym’s hollyhock seed pack contains 3,000+ seeds in a mixed-color blend (red, yellow, pink, white, and more) that produces towering perennial blooms reaching 6–8 feet tall. Hollyhocks are classic cottage-garden plants that thrive when winter-sown — their seeds naturally benefit from cold stratification, and the plants establish deep taproots during cool weather that support dramatic summer flowering. The pack is designed for large-scale planting in flower beds, backyard borders, or along fences where vertical height adds structure.
Customers consistently report exceptional germination rates, with several reviewers noting 100% sprouting within three days of planting. The seeds are described as highly viable even for beginner gardeners — simply sow ¼ inch deep in a sunny spot, water regularly, and watch them grow. Blooming occurs from summer to early fall, with plants reaching their full height and flower production in the second year after winter sowing. The self-seeding nature of hollyhocks means they will return and spread naturally with minimal intervention.
The value-per-seed ratio here is outstanding — 3,000+ seeds in a single packet provides enough material to fill an entire cottage garden or fence line. The beginner-friendly label and straightforward growing requirements make this an excellent choice for first-time winter sowers who want reliable, high-impact results. For gardeners seeking dramatic vertical beauty from a single winter sowing session, hollyhocks deliver unmatched visual payoff.
What works
- Exceptional germination rate — many customers report 100% sprouting
- Self-seeding perennials return year after year with minimal effort
- Towering 6-8 ft height creates dramatic vertical garden structure
- Excellent value with 3,000+ seeds in a single packet
What doesn’t
- Biennial habit means limited flowering in the first year
- Tall stalks may require staking in windy locations
10. Mountain Valley Seed Company Winter Cereal Rye
Mountain Valley Seed Company’s Winter Cereal Rye (Secale cereale) is a 1-pound bag containing approximately 8,000 open-pollinated, non-GMO seeds purpose-grown for cold-weather cover cropping. Unlike ornamental flowers or vegetables, this annual grain is planted specifically to protect and improve soil during winter months — it prevents erosion, suppresses weeds, and can be tilled under as green manure to enrich soil organic matter for spring planting. The 75-day maturity window means it establishes quickly even in cool conditions.
For winter sowing, cereal rye is one of the most reliable cover crop choices because it germinates in soil temperatures as low as 34°F and continues growing through cold weather. Customers report excellent stand establishment even when broadcast on poor soil with minimal care — one reviewer described it as “relentless” growth that required mowing in late winter. The no-till method preserves soil ecosystem structure while the dense root system improves water infiltration and prevents nutrient leaching during freeze-thaw cycles.
The 1-pound bag provides generous coverage for home garden beds or small-scale field applications. The seed is clean — customers note no weeds or debris mixed in — and the packaging is well-sealed for freshness. For gardeners focused on soil health rather than flowers or harvest, this winter rye is a practical and proven tool for building better ground before spring planting.
What works
- Germinates in soil temperatures as low as 34°F — ideal for winter sowing
- Excellent erosion control and weed suppression during cold months
- Clean seed with no weed contaminants or debris
- Adds organic matter when tilled under as green manure
What doesn’t
- Not intended to overwinter — will die back in extreme cold
- Some customers reported poor germination in warmer climate zones
11. EarthBox Container Gardening System
The EarthBox is a self-contained, self-watering container gardening system that measures 29 inches long by 13.5 inches wide by 11 inches tall, with a 3-gallon water reservoir and 2-cubic-foot media capacity. All plastic components are food-safe, UV-stabilized, and manufactured in the USA — critical for outdoor winter exposure where sun degradation and freeze-thaw cycling can crack lesser containers. The system includes the container, aeration screen, water fill tube, and two reversible mulch covers (black/white).
While not a seed product itself, the EarthBox is an outstanding platform for winter sowing in regions where ground soil is too heavy, rocky, or frozen for direct planting. The self-watering reservoir provides consistent moisture at root level while the mulch cover regulates soil temperature — keeping roots warmer during cold snaps and cooler during unexpected thaws. Customers report exceptional results with peppers, squash, eggplants, and herbs, noting that the system dramatically outperforms traditional in-ground planting in poor soil conditions.
The “set it and forget it” design makes it particularly valuable for winter-sown vegetables and flowers that benefit from consistent moisture without daily attention. Integrated caster sockets allow mobility (casters not included), so containers can be moved to sheltered locations during extreme cold. For gardeners who want a durable, long-term growing platform that maximizes winter sowing success in limited or challenging spaces, the EarthBox is a proven investment.
What works
- Self-watering reservoir maintains consistent moisture through cold periods
- UV-stabilized, food-safe plastic withstands winter sun and freeze-thaw cycles
- Mulch cover regulates soil temperature for improved winter germination
- Made in USA with durable, long-lasting construction
What doesn’t
- Higher upfront investment compared to direct ground sowing
- Growing media and casters sold separately — not a complete kit
Hardware & Specs Guide
Seed Count & Coverage
Seed quantities range from 3,000 seeds (hollyhocks) to over 200,000 seeds (PLANTMEW perennial mix). Coverage area depends on seed size and recommended sowing density — 1-ounce packets typically cover 100 square feet, while 4-ounce bags can cover 300–600 square feet. Larger seed counts are not always better; choose based on your available garden area to avoid overseeding and competition between sprouts.
Cold Stratification Requirement
Many perennial wildflowers and native species require a cold, moist period to break seed dormancy. Winter sowing naturally provides this through freezing and thawing cycles. Species like purple coneflower, milkweed, blue flax, lupine, and black-eyed Susan evolved with this mechanism. Annual flowers (cosmos, zinnia, marigold) generally do not require stratification and may rot if sown in consistently wet, cold soil.
Perennial vs. Annual Composition
Perennial seeds establish root systems slowly through cold months and return each spring without replanting. Annuals bloom the first season but die after one year. The best winter-sowing blends combine both types: annuals provide immediate gratification while perennials build long-term garden structure. Check the label for the specific ratio — premium mixes often highlight perennial percentage as a quality indicator.
Germination Rate & Viability
Lab-tested germination rates of 90% or higher indicate fresh, well-stored seeds. Packaging matters: resealable, moisture-proof pouches (Mylar, foil-lined) maintain viability for 2–3 years, while paper envelopes or plastic bags allow moisture intrusion that reduces germination. Always check for a production date or expiration year — older seeds lose potency, especially after exposure to temperature swings.
FAQ
What is winter sowing and how does it work?
Which plants are best for winter sowing?
Can I winter sow in containers or do I need ground soil?
How do I know if a seed mix has high germination rates?
Will annual flowers survive winter sowing?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners, the best plants for winter sowing winner is the PLANTMEW 200,000+ Wildflower Seeds 16 Variety Perennial Mix because it combines massive seed count, perennial-dominant composition, and lab-tested germination in a single purchase. If you want edible harvests from your winter sowing efforts, grab the Gardeners Basics Cool Weather Vegetable Seeds for proven frost-tolerant varieties. And for soil improvement and erosion control through winter, nothing beats the Mountain Valley Winter Cereal Rye — a workhorse cover crop that strengthens your ground while the garden sleeps.