As the chill of December settles in, many gardeners may assume that their planting season has come to an end. However, winter gardening offers a unique opportunity for those willing to embrace the cold and plan ahead.
With careful selection of hardy plants, you can create a thriving winter garden that not only survives but flourishes through the cold months. This article will explore what to plant in December, providing valuable insights into creating a successful winter garden.
The Benefits of Winter Gardening
Before diving into specific plants suitable for December planting, it’s essential to understand why winter gardening is beneficial:
- Extended Growing Season: By planting in December, you can extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce earlier in spring.
- Pest Control: Many pests are less active during colder months, allowing your plants a better chance at survival without chemical interventions.
- Nutrient-Rich Soil: Winter crops contribute organic matter back into the soil as they grow or decompose, enhancing soil fertility.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A well-planned winter garden adds visual interest with evergreen foliage and colorful stems against a snowy backdrop.
What Can You Plant in December?
The key to successful winter gardening lies in choosing hardy varieties that can withstand frost and cold temperatures. Here are some excellent options for your December planting list:
Cool-Season Vegetables
Certain vegetables thrive even when temperatures drop. Consider these cool-season crops:
- Kale: This nutrient-dense leafy green is incredibly resilient; its flavor often improves after frost exposure.
- Spinach: Spinach germinates well even at low temperatures and provides an early harvest if planted now.
- Broad Beans (Fava Beans): These beans can be sown directly into the ground this month for an early spring crop.
- Lettuce Varieties (e.g., Butterhead): Some types of lettuce are surprisingly tolerant of cold weather and can be grown throughout winter with proper protection.
Aromatic Herbs
If you’re interested in growing herbs during the chilly months, consider these options that thrive well indoors or under cloches outdoors:
Pansy-leafed Thyme: This herb tolerates cooler weather while adding flavor to various dishes
Chives: Hardy perennials that offer fresh greens all year round when properly cared for.
Parsley: Another biennial herb that grows robustly during cool seasons.
Berries and FruitsYou don’t have to limit yourself solely to vegetables; several fruits also do well if planted this month:
Use Row Covers: Lightweight fabric protects young seedlings from frost while allowing sunlight through.
Mulch Generously:Add mulch around your plants—this insulates roots against extreme temperature fluctuations.
Select Suitable Varieties:Select species bred specifically for cooler climates which tend toward hardiness over tenderness.
Create WindbreaksA simple barrier made from burlap or other materials shields delicate crops from harsh winds.(Source: American Horticultural Society)
Swansea Community Garden – Wales:Utilizing poly-tunnels allowed them successfully grow various vegetable crops during harsh winters since implementing this method saw yields increase by up t o70% compared with traditional methods!
