December can often feel like a quiet month in the garden, as colder temperatures settle in and many plants go dormant. However, this is not the time to hang up your gardening gloves!
Depending on your regional climate, December can be a productive month for gardeners looking to plant certain vegetables, herbs, flowers, trees, shrubs, and even some fruits.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best plants to nurture during December, tailored to various climates, alongside essential gardening tips to ensure your winter planting thrives.
Understanding the Regional Climates
Before diving into the specifics of what to plant, it’s important to recognize that not all regions experience winter in the same way.
USDA Hardiness Zones: Knowing your zone can help you determine when to plant. The USDA Hardiness Zone map divides North America into different zones based on average minimum temperatures. Zones range from 1 (coldest) to 13 (warmest), with various microclimates influencing actual conditions in your specific area.
Regional Differences:
Northern Climates (Zones 1-5): Generally experience cold weather and frost, but can still plant cold-hardy vegetables like kale and onions in a greenhouse.
Transition Zones (Zones 6-7): A mix of cold and mild temperatures; some winter vegetables, herbs and flowers can be harvested.
Southern Climates (Zones 8-10): Warmer winters allow for a wider range of options, including many herbs and late-season vegetables.
Vegetables to Plant in December
Continuing to sow vegetables in December is feasible in many climates that have mild winters. Here’s a list of vegetables that can be planted during this month:
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is a resilient vegetable that thrives in cooler weather. Planting seedlings in December allows for a bounty of delicious and nutritious harvests in early spring.
2. Brussels Sprouts
These vegetables benefit from frost, which gives them their characteristic sweet flavor. December plantings can yield better outcomes before spring.
3. Cabbage
Cold-resistant, cabbage can be sown in December in many regions. They mature in cool conditions and can withstand frost.
4. Carrots
Planting carrots before the ground freezes is advantageous. They can be harvested throughout winter if mulched appropriately.
5. Cauliflower
Like broccoli, cauliflower prefers cooler temperatures and should be planted early in December for spring harvest.
6. Kale
Kale is one of the hardiest vegetables, capable of surviving winter’s chill and providing fresh greens even under snow cover.
7. Lettuce
If you live in a milder climate, sowing lettuce in December can reward you with early spring salads.
8. Onions
Onions can be planted in December for an early harvest in late spring or early summer. Sets or seedlings should be used.
9. Peas
While they prefer cool weather, most varieties of peas can be sown in December in milder regions, leading to an early crop.
10. Potatoes
December is a favorable time to plant early potatoes in southern climates, providing a chance for lovely spring and summer yield.
11. Radishes
Fast-growing radishes are perfect for winter planting, as they can mature quickly with a short turnaround time.
12. Spinach
Another hardy vegetable, spinach can be sown in December for an ongoing harvest through winter.
13. Tomatoes
If you are in a warmer climate, you may consider planting tomatoes indoors or in a greenhouse for early starts.
Herbs to Plant in December
Herbs can often be planted during colder months and many thrive in cool temperatures. Here are some great options to sow in December:
1. Basil
Although more often treated as an annual, basil can be grown indoors to keep it vibrant during the winter.
2. Chives
This perennial herb thrives in cooler settings and can be harvested throughout the winter.
3. Cilantro
Sow cilantro in early December for fresh leaves to spice up your winter dishes!
4. Dill
Dill is another herb that can be sown in December, providing flavor for cooking or pickling later.
5. Mint
Mint is resilient and can be planted early in winter; however, be mindful of its spreading nature.
6. Oregano
Planting oregano in December can allow it to establish before its vigorous growth in spring.
7. Parsley
Parsley is a biennial that can thrive in cooler months and will provide fresh herbs for winter dishes.
8. Rosemary
This perennial herb can often tolerate cold and can be started indoors, providing a robust flavor throughout the winter months.
9. Sage
Sage thrives in cooler weather and can be easily planted in December.
10. Thyme
This hardy herb is well-suited for planting in December. Its resilience to cold makes it a perfect candidate for winter gardens, ensuring fresh flavor additions to your meals.
Flowers to Plant in December
Though many flowers may not be in bloom during December, planting certain varieties can set the stage for a vibrant spring garden. Here’s a list of flowers to consider:
1. Azaleas
Azaleas can be planted in warmer regions during December. They add vibrant colors once spring arrives, providing beautiful blooms that can last through the season.
2. Begonias
While mainly used as winter houseplants, begonias can also be grown outdoors in warmer climates, offering stunning flowers in the upcoming months.
3. Camellias
These gorgeous flowering shrubs can be planted in December, featuring beautiful blossoms that bloom throughout the winter.
4. Daisies
If you live in a milder climate, planting daisies during December can provide early blooms in spring with their delightful sunny faces.
5. Geraniums
Geraniums can be planted both indoors and outdoors in warmer regions. Their bright flowers bring a cheerful touch to winter gardens.
6. Hibiscus
Hibiscus can be planted in warmer climates during December, and they will provide large, tropical blooms as the temperatures start to rise.
7. Impatiens
Planting impatiens in warmer areas can lead to blooms that light up shaded spots in your garden come spring.
8. Lantanas
If you live in a climate that does not experience harsh winters, lantanas can be established in December, providing color that lasts until fall.
9. Lilies
Lilies can be planted in December for spring blooms; they thrive in colder climates if given proper care and protection from frost.
10. Marigolds
In milder climates, marigolds can be planted, which will provide a splash of color and are known for attracting beneficial insects.
11. Pansies
These cool-weather flowers are perfect for planting in December, thriving in cold with striking colors that brighten any garden.
12. Petunias
Petunias can be started indoors and later moved outside in warmer regions, ensuring a colorful garden throughout spring and early summer.
13. Roses
Roses can be pruned and planted in December. The earlier you plant them, the more time they have to settle before spring, leading to beautiful blooms when the weather warms.
Trees & Shrubs to Plant in December
December is an excellent time for planting trees and shrubs, especially in regions with milder winters. Here are at least 20 trees and shrubs that you can consider planting:
1. Maple Trees
Maples are resilient and can be planted in December in many climates, adding spectacular fall color later.
2. Oak Trees
These hardy trees can withstand colder conditions and should be planted during dormancy.
3. Pine Trees
Planting pines in December establishes strong roots before the ground freezes.
4. Spruce Trees
Similar to pines, spruce trees can thrive when planted in winter for seasonal beauty.
5. Birch Trees
Birch trees tolerate a range of conditions; plant them in December for beautiful bark and fall foliage.
6. Dogwood Trees
Known for their beautiful spring flowers, dogwoods can be established in December in many climates.
7. Cherry Trees
Deciduous cherry trees are a great winter planting option, preparing for stunning spring blooms.
8. Hawthorn Trees
These trees can be planted in winter, and their flowers will attract birds and pollinators in spring.
9. Magnolias
Magnolia trees can be planted in many climates and will add aromatic blooms in the spring.
10. Weeping Willow
Known for their picturesque form, weeping willows can be established now to enjoy their draping branches later.
Fruits to Plant in December
For those in warmer climates, December can also be an ideal time to plant certain fruits. Here are some delicious options:
1. Grapes
Deciduous grapevines can be planted in December. They will begin rooting and can produce fruit by summer if properly cared for.
2. Oranges
In warmer climates, planting orange trees in December allows them to establish roots before the warmer months.
3. Peaches
Peach trees benefit from being planted during the dormant season in milder climates, ensuring a fruitful spring.
4. Pears
Pears can be planted to add a bountiful harvest in your garden. They thrive when planted in winter.
5. Pineapples
Pineapples can be planted indoors or in a greenhouse during winter months, leading to a wonderful tropical yield in the warmer seasons.
6. Pomegranates
These trees are well-suited for regions with mild winters. Planting in December helps them establish before the heat of summer.
7. Strawberries
Early planting of strawberries in warmer areas can lead to earlier yields in the spring and summer.
8. Tangerines
Like oranges, tangerine trees can be established in December, which will provide sweet fruit when summer rolls around.
9. Watermelons
In very mild climates, watermelons can be planted indoors in December. While they will not be ready until late spring, starting early can help extend growing time.
Essential Gardening Tips for Winter
Planting during the winter months requires some adjustments to your gardening practices. Here are essential tips to ensure your plants thrive during December:
Soil Preparation and Mulching
Soil Testing: Before planting, conduct a soil test to check nutrient levels and pH. Amend soils as necessary to create optimal conditions.
Improve Drainage: Ensure your garden beds have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm roots during the winter.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch (2-4 inches) around newly planted seeds and seedlings. This protects roots from freezing temperatures, reduces weed growth, and helps retain soil moisture.
Watering Strategies During Winter Rains
Monitor Moisture: While winter generally brings rain, monitor soil moisture levels to ensure plants are not sitting in waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Watering Schedule: Water new plantings during dry spells. Newly planted trees and shrubs especially need consistent moisture to establish roots in winter.
Protecting Plants from Cold Weather
Frost Cloths: Use frost cloths or blankets to cover vulnerable plants during cold snaps. This provides an extra layer of insulation.
Windbreaks: Create barriers with burlap or strategically placed evergreen branches to shield delicate plants from harsh winds.
Greenhouses: For more delicate plants, consider setting up a greenhouse or using cold frames to maintain a warmer and more controlled environment.
Planting and Maintenance
Starting Seeds and Transplanting
Indoors vs. Outdoors: Depending on your climate, it may be a good idea to start specific seeds indoors. Use seed trays with a heat mat to foster germination in cooler temperatures.
Transplanting: If you have seedlings from earlier in the year, ensure you transplant them carefully, keeping disturbance to their roots to a minimum.
Pruning and Managing Weeds
Pruning: December is an excellent time to prune many trees and shrubs while they are dormant. This encourages healthy growth in the spring and shapes the plant.
Weed Management: Even in winter, weeds can thrive. Regularly check your gardens and remove any weeds that might compete with your newly planted vegetables and flowers.
Mulch for Weed Suppression: As mentioned earlier, updating your mulch can prevent weed growth while locking in moisture for more established plants.
