What to Plant in December: A Guide to Seasonal Gardening

What to Plant in December

The winter months can be a challenging time for gardeners, but there are still plenty of plants that can be grown during this season. By choosing the right plants and following a few simple tips, you can enjoy a beautiful garden all winter long.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best plants to grow in December, as well as provide tips on how to care for them. We will also cover some of the challenges that you may face when gardening in winter, and how to overcome them.

So if you’re looking for something to do to keep yourself occupied during the winter months, why not give gardening a try? It’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful garden that will brighten up your home.

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Vegetable When to Plant Notes
Broccoli Mid-December to early January Broccoli needs cool weather to grow, so it’s a good choice for planting in December.
Cabbage Mid-December to early January Cabbage is another cool-weather crop that does well when planted in December.
Cauliflower Mid-December to early January Cauliflower is similar to broccoli and cabbage in that it prefers cool weather.
Lettuce Mid-December to early January Lettuce is a good choice for a winter garden because it can tolerate cool weather.
Spinach Mid-December to early January Spinach is another cool-weather crop that does well when planted in December.

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Vegetables to Plant in December

December is a great time to start planning your vegetable garden for the coming year. While the ground may be frozen, you can still get a head start on your garden by starting seeds indoors.

Here are some vegetables that you can plant in December:

  • Lettuce. Lettuce is a cool-weather crop that can tolerate frost. It’s a good choice for a winter garden because it can be harvested throughout the season.
  • Spinach. Spinach is another cool-weather crop that is easy to grow. It can be harvested in just a few weeks, making it a great choice for a quick crop.
  • Kale. Kale is a hardy vegetable that can withstand cold weather. It’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it can be eaten raw or cooked.
  • Swiss chard. Swiss chard is a versatile vegetable that can be used in salads, soups, and stews. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
  • Radishes. Radishes are a quick-growing crop that can be harvested in just a few weeks. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be eaten raw or cooked.
  • Beets. Beets are a root vegetable that can be harvested in the fall or winter. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be eaten raw, roasted, or pickled.
  • Carrots. Carrots are a root vegetable that can be harvested in the fall or winter. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be eaten raw, roasted, or steamed.
  • Turnips. Turnips are a root vegetable that can be harvested in the fall or winter. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be eaten raw, roasted, or mashed.

Tips for Planting Vegetables in December

When planting vegetables in December, it’s important to choose varieties that are suited for the climate. Look for vegetables that are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost.

It’s also important to start seeds indoors early. This will give them a head start on the growing season and help them to reach maturity before the weather gets too hot.

When planting seeds indoors, use a sterile potting mix and a seedling tray. Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and cover them with soil. Water the seeds well and place the seedling tray in a warm, sunny location.

Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them out so that they are about 2 inches apart. Continue to water the seedlings regularly and provide them with plenty of sunlight.

When the weather is warm enough, you can transplant the seedlings outdoors. Choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole for each seedling and gently remove it from the seedling tray. Place the seedling in the hole and backfill it with soil. Water the seedling well and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Harvesting Vegetables in December

You can start harvesting your vegetables in December once they reach maturity. Be sure to harvest them when they are ripe for the best flavor and nutrition.

To harvest vegetables, simply cut them off at the base of the stem. Be sure to leave some of the stem attached so that the plant can continue to produce new growth.

Store your vegetables in a cool, dry place. They will keep for several weeks if stored properly.

December is a great time to start planning your vegetable garden for the coming year. By starting seeds indoors, you can get a head start on the growing season and enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables all winter long.

Flowers to Plant in December

December is a challenging month for gardening, but there are still a few flowers that can be planted successfully. Here are some of the best flowers to plant in December:

  • Pansies are a popular choice for winter gardens, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes. Pansies are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so they’re a good option for gardens in colder climates.
  • Primroses are another good choice for winter gardens. They bloom in early spring, and they come in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, and white. Primroses are also cold-hardy and can tolerate frost.
  • Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring. They have white petals and green leaves, and they’re a beautiful addition to any winter garden. Snowdrops are also cold-hardy and can tolerate frost.
  • Daffodils are a popular choice for spring gardens, and they can also be planted in December. Daffodils come in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, and orange. They’re cold-hardy and can tolerate frost.
  • Irises are a beautiful choice for summer gardens, but they can also be planted in December. Irises come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and yellow. They’re cold-hardy and can tolerate frost.

When planting flowers in December, it’s important to choose varieties that are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost. It’s also important to plant the flowers in a location that gets full sun or partial shade.

Herbs to Plant in December

Herbs are a great way to add flavor to your cooking, and they can also be used for medicinal purposes. Here are some of the best herbs to plant in December:

  • Basil is a popular herb that is used in a variety of dishes. Basil is cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so it can be planted in December.
  • Chives are another popular herb that is used in a variety of dishes. Chives are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so they can be planted in December.
  • Dill is a herb that is used in a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and sandwiches. Dill is cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so it can be planted in December.
  • Oregano is a herb that is used in a variety of Italian dishes. Oregano is cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so it can be planted in December.
  • Rosemary is a herb that is used in a variety of dishes, including roasted meats and vegetables. Rosemary is cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, so it can be planted in December.

When planting herbs in December, it’s important to choose varieties that are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost. It’s also important to plant the herbs in a location that gets full sun or partial shade.

December is a challenging month for gardening, but there are still a few flowers and herbs that can be planted successfully. By choosing cold-hardy varieties and planting them in a location that gets full sun or partial shade, you can enjoy fresh flowers and herbs all winter long.

What can I plant in December?

  • Hardy annuals, such as pansies, violas, snapdragons, and forget-me-nots, can be planted in December in most climates. These plants will tolerate cold weather and will continue to bloom until spring.
  • Perennials, such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses, can also be planted in December. These plants will need to be protected from frost, but they will come back year after year.
  • Vegetables, such as lettuce, spinach, and radishes, can be planted in December in warm climates. These vegetables will need to be protected from frost, but they can be harvested in early spring.

What are the best conditions for planting in December?

The best conditions for planting in December are:

  • A well-drained soil. The soil should be able to drain away excess water, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
  • A sunny location. Most plants need at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
  • Warm temperatures. Most plants will not tolerate frost, so it is important to plant them in a location that is protected from the cold.

How do I care for plants that I planted in December?

Once you have planted your plants, it is important to care for them properly to ensure that they thrive.

  • Water your plants regularly. The amount of water that your plants need will vary depending on the weather, but it is important to make sure that they do not dry out.
  • Fertilize your plants regularly. Fertilizing your plants will help them to grow strong and healthy.
  • Protect your plants from pests and diseases. There are a number of pests and diseases that can affect plants, so it is important to take steps to protect them.

What are some common mistakes that people make when planting in December?

Some common mistakes that people make when planting in December include:

  • Planting too early. The ground may still be too cold for some plants to survive, so it is important to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.
  • Planting in the wrong location. Plants need to be planted in a location that is well-drained, sunny, and protected from the cold.
  • Not watering your plants regularly. Plants need water to survive, so it is important to make sure that they are watered regularly, especially during dry spells.

What are some tips for successful winter gardening?

Here are some tips for successful winter gardening:

  • Choose the right plants. Not all plants are suitable for winter gardening. Choose plants that are hardy to your climate and that will tolerate the cold weather.
  • Prepare the soil. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. If the soil is too heavy, add some compost or sand to improve drainage.
  • Water your plants regularly. Plants need water to survive, even in the winter. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Protect your plants from the cold. Mulch your plants to protect them from the cold weather. You can also use frost cloth or row covers to protect plants from frost.
  • Watch for pests and diseases. Pests and diseases can be a problem for winter gardens. Keep an eye on your plants for signs of pests or diseases and treat them as needed.

    there are many different plants that can be successfully grown in December. By choosing the right plants for your climate and growing conditions, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce all winter long. Be sure to do your research before you start planting, and don’t forget to give your plants the proper care and attention they need to thrive. With a little planning and effort, you can have a beautiful and bountiful winter garden.

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.