As the calendar turns to December, many regions in the United States brace for winter, but in Florida, the climate remains surprisingly mild, providing an excellent opportunity for garden enthusiasts to continue planting and cultivating their winter gardens.
Understanding the Regional Climates
Florida is divided into several climatic zones, which influence what can be planted during the winter months. The primary zones range from the cooler northern regions to the tropical southern areas.
North Florida (Zones 8A to 9A): Winters here can be cool, with occasional frosts. It’s important to choose crops that can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Central Florida (Zones 9A to 10A): This area sees mild winters with fewer frost days, making it suitable for a wide variety of winter vegetables and flowers.
South Florida (Zones 10A to 11): The southernmost parts enjoy a tropical climate, allowing for year-round planting, including subtropical and tropical fruits.
Recognizing which zone you are in will help you select the right plants that can thrive during this time of the year. Regardless of the zone, winter is a season of opportunity in Florida gardens, and December is a perfect month to start.
What To Plant In December In Florida
Now that we understand the regional climates, let’s delve into the specifics of what you can plant in December. We’ll categorize our plants into vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits.
Vegetables
Winter is a fruitful season for growing vegetables in Florida. Here’s a list of vegetables well-suited for December planting:
Broccoli
This cool-season crop thrives in cooler temperatures and can be planted by seed or transplants. Regular watering and rich soil will yield good harvests.
Brussels Sprouts
These take a bit longer to mature, but planting them in December will give you a spring harvest. They need ample sunlight and consistent moisture.
Cabbage
This versatile vegetable can be used in many dishes. It grows well in the cooler Florida climate, and planting in December often leads to a harvest in early spring.
Carrots
Carrots grow best in sandy soils, which are prevalent in Florida. Sow seeds directly into the soil, ensuring a sunny spot for optimal growth.
Cauliflower
This vegetable can be somewhat finicky, requiring consistent moisture and cooler temperatures. December is a great time to get cauliflower started.
Kale
Known for its health benefits, kale is a frost-tolerant plant that can be planted in December. It’s a hearty green that thrives in cooler weather.
Lettuce
Various types of lettuce can be sown in December. Opt for leaf and romaine varieties that germinate quickly and can be harvested throughout the winter.
Onions
December is an excellent time to plant onion sets or transplants. They require full sun and well-drained soil.
Peas
Sugar snap peas and snow peas can be sown in December. They thrive in the cooler weather, and their harvest can happen quickly.
Potatoes
Seed potatoes can be planted in December for an early spring harvest. Choose a sunny location and ensure the soil is well-drained.
Radishes
Fast-growing and easy to cultivate, radishes can be planted in December for a quick turnaround.
Spinach
Spinach is another cool weather crop that can be directly sown in the garden this month. Regular moisture will ensure healthy growth.
Tomatoes
While typically a summer crop, certain varieties can be started indoors in December and transplanted outside once the weather warms.
Herbs
Herbs are an essential part of any garden, and December is a good month to plant these aromatic wonders:
Basil
Although basil is more commonly known as a summer herb, in southern Florida, you can still plant it in December for a strong harvest.
Chives
These perennials are hardy and can be planted now to provide a fresh seasoning all winter long.
Cilantro
This herb prefers cooler weather, making December a perfect time to plant it. It can be sown directly into the garden.
Dill
Another herb that loves cooler temperatures, dill can be directly sown in well-prepared soil this month.
Mint
While it can be invasive, mint is an easy herb to grow in Florida, and you can plant it in pots to keep it contained.
Oregano
This hardy herb does well in Florida’s climate. It can be planted in December and used fresh throughout the winter.
Parsley
Parsley can be planted now for a flavorful addition to various dishes. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade if temperatures are warm.
Rosemary
This perennial herb is drought-tolerant and can be planted in December. It loves sunny spots and well-drained soil, making it a perfect addition to your winter garden.
Sage
A flavorful herb that thrives in cooler weather, sage can be planted in December. It’s a hardy plant that can withstand frost and will continue to provide fresh leaves throughout the winter.
Thyme
Thyme is another herb that can be grown easily in Florida. It prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant in December for a steady supply of this fragrant herb throughout the winter.
Flowers
In addition to vegetables and herbs, vibrant flowers can bring color to your winter garden. Here are some beautiful options to plant in December:
Begonias
With their colorful blooms, begonias can brighten up any garden during the winter months. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil.
Camellias
These flowering shrubs showcase their beautiful blooms from late fall through winter. Planting in December allows them to establish before the blooming season begins.
Daisies
These classic flowers can be sown in December for a burst of color in your garden. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
Geraniums
Geraniums are versatile flowers that can be planted in containers or garden beds. They thrive well in sunny locations, adding a cheerful touch to your winter landscape.
Hibiscus
These tropical blooms thrive in Florida, and planting them in December gives them a head start for blooming in spring. They prefer sunny spots and well-drained soil.
Impatiens
Hailing from tropical areas, impatiens are great for adding vibrant color in shady spots. Plant them in December for blooms throughout the winter.
Lantanas
Lantanas are hardy plants that tolerate Florida’s climate well. They bloom year-round and are excellent for attracting butterflies to your garden.
Lilies
Cultivating lilies in your garden adds elegance and beautiful fragrances. Planting bulbs in December allows for early spring blooms.
Marigolds
These cheerful flowers are not only beautiful but also serve as natural pest repellents. Plant them in December for a colorful garden all winter long.
Pansies
Pansies are a favorite winter flower, as they can withstand cooler temperatures. They are available in many colors and can be planted in December for immediate visual interest.
Petunias
Petunias provide vibrant hues to your winter garden. In Florida, you can plant these around December for a bloom that lasts well into spring.
Roses
Planting roses in December allows them to establish a good root system before blooming. Choose varieties that flourish in your specific region.
Fruits
Florida’s mild winter is perfect for planting a variety of fruits, ensuring a bountiful harvest in the coming months. Here’s what you can consider planting in December:
Oranges
December is a great time to plant citrus trees, especially oranges. Ensure they have plenty of sun and well-drained soil.
Peaches
Southern varieties of peaches can be planted in December. Choose a sunny location and allow for adequate space for growth.
Pears
Pears can also be planted in December. Look for varieties that are well-suited to the Florida climate to ensure a successful crop.
Pineapples
Starting pineapple plants in December can lead to a fruitful harvest within 18-24 months. Plant the tops in well-draining soil with plenty of sun.
Pomegranates
These drought-tolerant trees can thrive in Florida’s climate. Planting in December will help them establish before spring.
Strawberries
December is perfect for planting strawberries, as they flourish in the cooler months. Choose a sunny spot and supplement with mulch to keep moisture.
Tangerines
Tangerines can be planted in December, similar to other citrus trees. They require sunlight and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Watermelons
While typically associated with summer, early varieties of watermelon can be started in December indoors for later transplanting.
Essential Gardening Tips for Winter
Now that you know what to plant, let’s talk about some essential gardening tips for Florida’s winter season:
Soil Preparation and Mulching
Before planting, ensure your soil is well-prepared. This can include testing the pH and nutrient levels, adding organic matter, or compost to enrich the soil. Applying mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, benefitting your winter plants.
Watering Strategies During Winter Rains
Florida winters can bring unexpected rainfall. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Ensure dirt drains well and is not waterlogged. As winter progresses and rainfall decreases, maintain a regular watering schedule that keeps the soil moist but not saturated.
Protecting Plants from Cold Weather
While Florida winters may be milder than in many other states, cold snaps can still occur, particularly in North and Central Florida. Here are some strategies to keep your plants safe from unexpected chills:
Frost Cloths: Use frost cloths or row covers to protect tender plants from frost. These lightweight sheets insulate plants, trapping warmth while allowing moisture and sunlight to penetrate.
Mulching: A thick layer of mulch can help insulate the soil, keeping it warmer and protecting shallow root systems from cold temperatures.
Choose the Right Varieties: Be mindful of the varieties you choose to plant. Selecting cold-tolerant varieties will help reduce the risk of frost damage.
Plant Positioning: Positioning your garden in a sheltered spot (like near a building or a fence) can provide some protection from harsh winds and freezing temperatures.
Watering Wisely: Watering plants just before a predicted frost can help protect them. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil, providing a little extra warmth to the roots.
Planting and Maintenance
To help your winter garden flourish, consider the following planting and maintenance tips:
Starting Seeds and Transplanting
For many crops, starting seeds indoors during December can lead to earlier harvests. Once plants have developed a few leaves and the threat of frost has diminished, they can be carefully transplanted outdoors.
Timing: Be mindful of your local frost dates when timing your seed starts and transplants.
Transplanting Techniques: When transplanting seedlings, handle them gently to avoid shocking the roots. Water thoroughly after planting and provide some shade for a few days to help them acclimate.
Pruning and Managing Weeds
Regular maintenance is key to a successful garden. Ensure to prune back any dead or diseased plant material to promote healthy growth.
Weed Management: Weeds compete for resources like water, sunlight, and nutrients. Regularly check your garden and remove weeds before they establish. Mulching can also help suppress weed growth.
Monitoring Plant Health: Keep an eye on your plants for signs of disease or pests. Early detection and treatment are crucial to maintaining a healthy garden.
Adjusting Fertilization: Depending on what you’re growing, adjust your fertilization practices. Cooler weather may reduce the uptake of nutrients, so a slow-release fertilizer might be more effective in winter months.
Pest Control
Though winter brings relief from many insects, some pests can remain active. Monitor your plants for any signs of infestations and address them promptly.
Natural Predators: Encourage beneficial insects, like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations naturally.
Organic Solutions: Using organic pest control methods, like neem oil or insecticidal soap, can help manage pests without harming beneficial insects.
Conclusion
December in Florida presents a wonderful opportunity to plant and cultivate a wide array of vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits. By understanding the regional climates and utilizing essential gardening practices, you can create a thriving winter garden.
Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced horticulturist, winter gardening in Florida offers the chance to enjoy fresh produce and vibrant blooms during the cooler months. With the right planning, planting, and maintenance, you can ensure that your garden flourishes and provides beauty and bounty throughout the winter season.
As you set out in your gardening endeavors this December, remember to embrace the uniqueness of Florida’s growing conditions, stay informed about weather changes, and most importantly, enjoy the process of nurturing your garden.
