What to Plant in December in Southern California: A Guide for Gardeners

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What to Plant in December in Southern California

The warm winter climate of Southern California makes it possible to grow a wide variety of plants, even during the coldest months of the year. In December, you can plant a variety of vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits.

Vegetables

Some of the best vegetables to plant in December in Southern California include:

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Potatoes
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Tomatoes

Herbs

You can also plant a variety of herbs in December in Southern California, including:

  • Basil
  • Chives
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Thyme

Flowers

In addition to vegetables and herbs, you can also plant a variety of flowers in December in Southern California. Some of the best flowers to plant include:

  • Azaleas
  • Begonias
  • Camellias
  • Daisies
  • Geraniums
  • Hibiscus
  • Impatiens
  • Lantanas
  • Lilies
  • Marigolds
  • Pansies
  • Petunias
  • Roses

Fruits

Finally, you can also plant a variety of fruits in December in Southern California. Some of the best fruits to plant include:

  • Grapes
  • Oranges
  • Peaches
  • Pears
  • Pineapples
  • Pomegranates
  • Strawberries
  • Tangerines
  • Watermelons

With so many different plants to choose from, you’re sure to find something to grow in your garden in December in Southern California. So get started planting today!

Vegetable When to Plant Notes
Broccoli December to February Broccoli needs cool weather to grow, so it’s a good choice for December planting in Southern California.
Cauliflower December to February Like broccoli, cauliflower needs cool weather to grow. It’s also a good choice for December planting in Southern California.
Cabbage December to February Cabbage is another cool-weather crop that does well in December in Southern California.
Lettuce December to February Lettuce is a versatile green that can be grown in a variety of climates. It’s a good choice for December planting in Southern California.
Spinach December to February Spinach is another cool-weather green that does well in December in Southern California.
Kale December to February Kale is a hardy green that can withstand cold weather. It’s a good choice for December planting in Southern California.
Swiss chard December to February Swiss chard is a cold-weather green that’s also a good choice for December planting in Southern California.

December is a great time to plant vegetables and fruits in Southern California. The weather is mild, and there is plenty of sunshine. This makes it the perfect time to get your garden started for the new year.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best vegetables and fruits to plant in December in Southern California. We will also provide tips on how to care for your plants and ensure that they produce a bountiful harvest.

Vegetables

The following are some of the best vegetables to plant in December in Southern California:

  • Broccoli. Broccoli is a cool-season crop that does well in the mild temperatures of December. It is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
  • Cabbage. Cabbage is another cool-season crop that is easy to grow. It is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
  • Carrots. Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
  • Kale. Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
  • Lettuce. Lettuce is a refreshing salad green that is perfect for the winter months. It is a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as fiber.
  • Peas. Peas are a sweet and crunchy vegetable that are a good source of protein. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
  • Potatoes. Potatoes are a versatile root vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins B6 and C, as well as potassium.
  • Radishes. Radishes are a peppery root vegetable that are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
  • Spinach. Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
  • Tomatoes. Tomatoes are a warm-season crop, but they can be started indoors in December and transplanted outdoors in early spring. They are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.

Fruits

The following are some of the best fruits to plant in December in Southern California:

  • Grapefruit. Grapefruit is a citrus fruit that is a good source of vitamin C. It is also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Oranges. Oranges are a citrus fruit that is a good source of vitamin C. They are also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Mandarin oranges. Mandarin oranges are a citrus fruit that is a good source of vitamin C. They are also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Pomegranate. Pomegranate is a fruit that is a good source of antioxidants. It is also a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
  • Tangerines. Tangerines are a citrus fruit that is a good source of vitamin C. They are also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Bananas. Bananas are a good source of potassium and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins B6 and C.
  • Cantaloupe. Cantaloupe is a melon that is a good source of vitamin C. It is also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Honeydew melon. Honeydew melon is a melon that is a good source of vitamin C. It is also a good source of potassium and fiber.
  • Watermelon. Watermelon is a melon that is a good source of vitamin C. It is also a good source of potassium and fiber.

December is a great time to plant vegetables and fruits in Southern California. The mild weather and plenty of sunshine make it the perfect time to get your garden started for the new year.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your plants will thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

Additional Tips for Growing Vegetables and Fruits in December in Southern California

  • Choose varieties that are suited for the climate. Some vegetables and fruits do better in warm weather, while others do better in cool weather. Make sure to choose varieties that are specifically suited for the climate in your area.
  • Start your seeds indoors. If you want to get a head start on the growing season, you can start your seeds indoors in December. This will give them a head start on the growing season and help them to produce a bountiful harvest.
  • Transplant your seedlings outdoors. Once the weather

Vegetables

The best vegetables to plant in December in Southern California include:

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Cucumbers
  • Eggplant
  • Lettuce
  • Peas
  • Peppers
  • Potatoes
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Tomatoes

These vegetables can all tolerate the cool winter temperatures in Southern California, and they will provide you with fresh produce throughout the season.

When planting vegetables in December, it is important to choose varieties that are specifically suited for the climate. Look for varieties that are tolerant of cool weather and that will mature quickly. It is also important to start your seeds indoors or in a greenhouse, as the soil in Southern California may not be warm enough for direct sowing until later in the season.

Once your seedlings have reached a certain size, you can transplant them outdoors. Be sure to harden them off before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few weeks.

Once your vegetables are planted, you will need to water them regularly and fertilize them as needed. You will also need to protect them from pests and diseases.

With proper care, you can grow a variety of delicious vegetables in Southern California in December.

Herbs

The best herbs to plant in December in Southern California include:

  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Thyme

These herbs are all relatively easy to grow, and they can add a lot of flavor to your cooking. They can also be used to make tea, infused oils, and other herbal remedies.

When planting herbs in December, it is important to choose varieties that are specifically suited for the climate. Look for varieties that are tolerant of cool weather and that will mature quickly. It is also important to start your seeds indoors or in a greenhouse, as the soil in Southern California may not be warm enough for direct sowing until later in the season.

Once your seedlings have reached a certain size, you can transplant them outdoors. Be sure to harden them off before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few weeks.

Once your herbs are planted, you will need to water them regularly and fertilize them as needed. You will also need to protect them from pests and diseases.

With proper care, you can grow a variety of delicious herbs in Southern California in December.

Flowers

The best flowers to plant in December in Southern California include:

  • Asters
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Dahlias
  • Marigolds
  • Pansies
  • Petunias
  • Roses
  • Snapdragons
  • Zinnias

These flowers are all relatively easy to grow, and they can add a lot of color and beauty to your garden. They can also be used to make cut flowers for arrangements.

When planting flowers in December, it is important to choose varieties that are specifically suited for the climate. Look for varieties that are tolerant of cool weather and that will mature quickly. It is also important to start your seeds indoors or in a greenhouse, as the soil in Southern California may not be warm enough for direct sowing until later in the season.

Once your seedlings have reached a certain size, you can transplant them outdoors. Be sure to harden them off before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few weeks.

Once your flowers are planted, you will need to water them regularly and fertilize them as needed. You will also need to protect them from pests and diseases.

With proper care, you can grow a variety of beautiful flowers in Southern California in December.

These are just a few of the many vegetables, herbs, and flowers that you can grow in Southern California in December. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce all winter long.

What are some good vegetables to plant in December in Southern California?

  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Swiss chard

What are some good fruits to plant in December in Southern California?

  • Grapes
  • Oranges
  • Mandarin oranges
  • Kumquats
  • Pomegranates
  • Figs
  • Persimmons
  • Avocados

What are some other plants to consider planting in December in Southern California?

  • Flowers:
  • Snapdragons
  • Pansies
  • Violas
  • Primroses
  • Tulips
  • Herbs:
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Oregano
  • Basil
  • Mint
  • Shrubs:
  • Roses
  • Azaleas
  • Camellias
  • Rhododendrons
  • Gardenias

What are some tips for planting in December in Southern California?

  • Choose plants that are well-suited for the climate and growing conditions in your area.
  • Plant your seeds or seedlings in well-drained soil.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Fertilize your plants according to the package directions.
  • Protect your plants from pests and diseases.

What are some common problems that gardeners may encounter when planting in December in Southern California?

  • Drought stress: Southern California can experience long periods of drought, so it’s important to water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Pests and diseases: Pests and diseases can be a problem for gardeners in Southern California. Be sure to inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases and treat them accordingly.
  • Frost damage: Frost can damage or kill plants in Southern California. Protect your plants from frost by covering them with a frost blanket or by bringing them indoors.

there are many different plants that can be grown in December in Southern California. Some of the best options include citrus trees, avocados, pomegranates, and figs. When choosing plants for your garden, it is important to consider the climate, soil conditions, and amount of sunlight available. By following these tips, you can grow a beautiful and bountiful garden in December in Southern California.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The best time to plant most trees and shrubs in Southern California is in the winter or early spring.
  • When choosing plants for your garden, it is important to consider the climate, soil conditions, and amount of sunlight available.
  • Some of the best plants to grow in December in Southern California include citrus trees, avocados, pomegranates, and figs.
  • By following these tips, you can grow a beautiful and bountiful garden in December in Southern California.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.