December December arrives marked by cold, rain, and humidity, but that doesn't mean gardening work should stop. In fact, this month is key to starting winter crops, renewing some seedlings, and preparing the ground for an even more productive next spring. With good planning and following a few basic guidelines, any garden lover can make the most of the possibilities December offers. Below, you'll find a complete and up-to-date guide on What to plant in the garden in December, tips for caring for plants and soil, recommended tasks, and what flowers and herbs you can introduce to fill your green space with life.
Importance of planning and maintenance in December
December is usually a month of less activity in the garden, because plant development slows down with the low temperatures. It's an ideal time to plan annual work, define crop rotation and thoroughly review tools, irrigation systems and supports. One of the fundamental tasks is protect existing crops Protect against frost by using mulch, padding, or greenhouses. It's also important to apply compost to maintain soil fertility and avoid leaving bare areas, as bare soil can lose richness and structure due to frost.
Essential tasks for the garden in December
Although direct sowing is reduced, December It is excellent for:
- Prepare the land: Clean, remove debris from previous crops and eliminate weeds.
- Apply compost and organic matter: Use pruning remains, peelings or grass clippings to increase soil life and fertility.
- Protect crops: Use mulch, straw, dry leaves or plastic covers to protect the roots from frost.
- Reduce irrigation: Growth is slow and rainfall is common, so it is advisable to water only when absolutely necessary and control excess water to avoid rot.
- Airing greenhouses: On warm days, ventilate to avoid condensation and mildew, but protect plants well in case of severe frost.
- Place bird feeders and shelters for auxiliary fauna: This way you help maintain the ecological balance in the garden.
Ideal crops to sow or plant in December
In December, crop selection depends largely on the area's climate and whether you have protection (heat blanket, greenhouse, plastic tunnels, or mulch). The most recommended and hardy species are:
- GarlicPerfect for taking advantage of the cool weather and growing large heads in summer. Plant cloves bud-side up, 10 cm apart.
- OnionsSuitable for both direct sowing (bulbs) and seedlings. White and red onion varieties can withstand cold.
- PotatoesIn temperate zones or under greenhouses, they can be sown during the last days of the month. Remember to let the cut parts dry to prevent rot. For more details, consult how to plant potatoes.
- Peas and beans: Robust legumes, ideal for staggered sowing, allowing for prolonged harvests and improving soil structure.
- Winter lettuces: Buds, iceberg lettuce, romaine, and other varieties tolerate low temperatures when fully grown. In addition, in protected areas, you can experiment with new varieties of greenhouse plants in winter.
- Spinach, chard, argula, canons y sprout: Quick-to-harvest leafy vegetables, ideal for protected seedbeds or direct sowing in mild climates.
- Coles (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, red cabbage, Brussels sprouts): Very hardy and productive, perfect for harvesting in winter and early spring.
- Leeks: They withstand the cold and can be planted in seedbeds or directly for harvesting in spring.
- Beet y rabanitos: Short cycle, they tolerate cold well if protected from intense frost.
- Carrots y turnips: If planted in well-drained and well-protected soils, they offer healthy and tasty roots.
Essential care: protection, irrigation and nutrition
During December, be sure to pay attention to the following key aspects:
- Frost protectionCover your most sensitive crops with thermal blankets, plastic sheets, or even cut-up canisters if you don't have a greenhouse. Mulch the base with straw or dry branches to cushion sudden temperature changes. You can also consult pruning techniques for plants in winter to improve the protection and health of your crops.
- Moderate wateringWith increased humidity and rainfall, water requirements decrease. Water only if the substrate is truly dry and avoid waterlogging.
- SubscriberAlthough growth is slowing, continue to incorporate organic compost to prepare the soil for spring. Growing crops will appreciate continued but moderate nutrition.
- Crop rotationRotate the types of plants you plant each season to prevent soil depletion and pest buildup. This will improve the overall health of your garden.
Flowers, herbs, and green manures to sow in December
In addition to vegetables, December is also a good time for:
- Winter flowersPlanting tulip, hyacinth, daffodil, lily, daylily, crocus, anemone, or snowdrop bulbs will bring you spring color. Pansies, primroses, and daisies can also be planted in temperate zones.
- Resistant aromaticsYou can introduce borage and fenugreek, which are winter-resistant and add biodiversity and flavor to your garden.
- green manuresPlant oats, broad beans, peas, or other legumes in areas you won't be planting right away. They improve soil structure, provide nitrogen, and prevent erosion during the cold months.
Typical harvests in December
If your garden is well organized, in December you will be able to harvest:
- Leeks, table beet, endive: All of them are very resistant, ideal for collecting throughout the winter.
- Cabbage, cauliflower, with, broccoli y turnip tops: Perfect for maintaining a rich and balanced diet at this time of year.
- Lettuce and spinachIf you've been planting since early fall, these crops can give you staggered harvests throughout the winter.
Caring for indoor and ornamental plants in December
Using heating and lack of light can negatively affect indoor plants and some seasonal flowers. Keep pots away from radiators and drafts, provide humidity with a mist sprayer (without directly spraying the flowers), and water only when the soil dries out.
- Poinsettia or Poinsettia: Requires indirect light, a stable temperature, and moderate watering. Watch for signs of limp leaves (drafts) or yellowing (excessive heat or dryness) and relocate the plant if necessary.
- Azaleas, pansies, primroses and daisies: Ideal winter plants for the ornamental garden, as long as they are protected from strong frosts and maintain adequate humidity.
December is a month of transformation in the garden, where patience and attention to detail make the difference between a dormant garden and one that's productive year-round. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy fresh vegetables even in the coldest months, keep the soil alive and fertile, and prepare the ground for a vibrant spring. Remember to combine hardy crops, seasonal flowers, herbs, and green manures to create a healthy and self-sufficient ecosystem, and thus continue to reap success, flavor, and color twelve months a year.
