Learn what to plant in December with our comprehensive guide, covering winter flowers, cold-hardy vegetables, and herbs to keep your garden growing through the colder months. Perfect for cool-season crops and vibrant winter color
Flowers (Best planted on Above-Ground Crop days in December)
- Alyssum
- Pansies
- Petunias
- Calendula
- Snapdragon
These winter flowers thrive in the cooler months and add vibrant color to your garden beds.
Vegetables (Plant on Below-Ground Crop in December)
Winter vegetables are resilient and love the cooler weather. Some ideal plants to start in December include:
These hardy vegetables can withstand the cold and provide nutritious additions to your meals.
Herbs (Ideal on Above-Ground Crop in December
Herbs are always a great addition to your garden for culinary and medicinal purposes. December is perfect for planting.
Grow these fragrant herbs to flavor your dishes and add visual appeal to your garden.
Lawn Care for December
The winter season requires special care to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant. Here’s a breakdown of what you should be doing this month:
Watering and Irrigation
- Water sparingly: Once a week is often sufficient due to cooler temperatures.
- Watch for dry spots: Use targeted hose watering if necessary.
Lawn Health Maintenance
- Mowing: Regularly mow to prevent weeds.
- Weeding: Spot control is best for any pesky weeds, as most insects and pests are inactive this time of year.
Fruit & Vegetable Garden: Winter Prep
As your summer crops fade, focus on planting and caring for cool-season crops. Here’s how to maintain a productive vegetable garden during the cooler months.
Vegetable and Fruit Care
- Plant cold-tolerant varieties like broccoli and Swiss chard.
- Harvest citrus: Many varieties ripen in December. Use a taste test to determine when fruits are ready.
Watering Tips
Cooler temperatures mean your garden needs less water. Only water when the surface soil starts to dry.
Herbs and Fertilizer
Feed container-grown herbs every two weeks to promote growth. For in-ground herbs, a monthly feeding will suffice.
Landscape and Shrub Care in December
December is ideal for giving your landscape some attention while preparing for the cold.
Transplant Trees and Shrubs
Transplanting trees and shrubs can be done now while the weather is cooler. Make sure to choose drought-tolerant and pest-resistant varieties to make your garden easier to maintain in the future.
Mulching and Cold Protection
Mulch heavily around root systems to protect them from cold snaps. Cold-sensitive plants should be protected or moved indoors.
Regional Planting Guide Tips
North Florida
North Florida experiences cooler temperatures and occasional frosts in December. Focus on planting cold-hardy vegetables like:
- Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, turnips
- Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, collard greens
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
Consider using row covers or cold frames to protect sensitive plants from frost.
Central Florida
Central Florida offers a more moderate climate, allowing for a wider variety of plantings. Consider these options:
- Cool-season vegetables: Lettuce, radishes, onions
- Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, parsley
- Winter-blooming flowers: Pansies, violas, snapdragons
Mulch around plants to help retain moisture and protect against temperature fluctuations.
South Florida
South Florida’s subtropical climate allows for year-round gardening. However, December can still be a good time to plant:
- Tropical fruits: Mangoes, papayas, guavas
- Heat-tolerant vegetables: Tomatoes, eggplant, peppers
- Ornamental plants: Hibiscus, bougainvillea, plumeria
Protect young plants from cold snaps with frost covers or by moving potted plants indoors.
Remember: Always check specific planting dates and recommendations for your local area, as microclimates can vary. Consider consulting with local gardening experts or referring to university extension service resources for tailored advice.
Houseplants and Foliage
Don’t forget about your indoor plants during the winter months! Here are some tips to keep them thriving:
- Watering: Keep an eye on the soil moisture; water only when the top layer dries out.
- Pest Control: Check regularly for mites or mealybugs, and wash the foliage to keep plants dust-free.
FAQs
What’s the best way to protect sensitive plants from cold weather?
Use frost covers or bring potted plants indoors during freezing temperatures.
Can I still plant vegetables in December?
Yes! Focus on cold-tolerant crops like beets, carrots, and onions.
How often should I water my lawn in winter?
Once a week is usually sufficient, especially if rainfall is frequent.
