What Are the Best Plants to Grow in December?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

As the year winds down and winter’s chill settles in, many gardeners might assume that December is a time to pause and wait for spring’s return. However, this month holds a unique opportunity for those eager to keep their green thumbs active and their gardens thriving. Understanding what to plant in December can transform your garden into a vibrant, productive space even during the colder months, setting the stage for a flourishing growing season ahead.

Gardening in December requires a thoughtful approach, balancing the challenges of lower temperatures and shorter daylight hours with the advantages of cool-season crops and hardy plants. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a modest balcony, knowing which plants can withstand the winter conditions—and which ones actually benefit from being sown or transplanted now—can make all the difference. This knowledge allows you to maximize your garden’s potential year-round and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce or blooms when others are still waiting for spring.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best options for December planting, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers suited to colder climates. By tapping into the rhythms of the season and selecting the right varieties, you can keep your garden vibrant and productive, proving that December is far from a dormant month in the gardening calendar.

Vegetables Suitable for December Planting

December is an ideal time to plant certain cool-season vegetables that thrive in lower temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Many of these vegetables benefit from the protection of a cold frame or greenhouse, but some hardy varieties can be sown directly outdoors in milder climates. When choosing what to plant, consider the frost tolerance of each vegetable and your local climate zone.

Leafy greens are among the best choices for December planting. Spinach, kale, and winter lettuces are well adapted to cold weather and can be harvested throughout the winter if protected adequately. Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and turnips also do well when sown in late autumn to early winter, as the cold soil helps develop their flavor.

Herbs to Sow or Plant in December

Certain herbs are suitable for planting or sowing in December, especially if you provide them with some protection from extreme cold. Hardy herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage can be planted outdoors, as they are evergreen perennials that tolerate frost well. For more tender herbs like parsley and chives, starting seeds indoors or in a greenhouse is advisable.

Herbs planted in December can establish strong root systems during the winter, ready to grow vigorously in spring. Consider propagating herbs through cuttings or dividing mature plants to expand your herb garden cost-effectively during this time.

Flowers That Can Be Planted in December

While December is not traditionally a peak planting time for most flowers, some species either bloom in late winter or benefit from winter sowing to bloom in early spring. Bulbs such as snowdrops, crocuses, and early tulips can be planted in December if the ground is workable. These bulbs require a cold period to break dormancy and flower properly.

Winter-flowering annuals and biennials, like pansies and violas, can also be planted now, especially if grown in containers or protected beds. These flowers add color and life to the garden during the colder months and can withstand light frosts.

Planting Techniques and Tips for December Gardening

Gardening in December requires specific techniques to protect young plants from frost and cold winds. Using cloches, cold frames, or row covers can create a microclimate that extends the growing season. Mulching around plants helps retain soil warmth and moisture, which is essential during the cold months.

When sowing seeds in December, it’s important to:

  • Use high-quality seed trays or pots with good drainage.
  • Sow seeds at the recommended depth to prevent them from drying out or rotting.
  • Keep seed trays in a warm, well-lit area, ideally with supplemental lighting if natural light is limited.
  • Water seeds carefully to maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Plant Type Examples Planting Method Notes
Leafy Greens Spinach, Kale, Winter Lettuce Direct sow outdoors or in cold frame Prefer cool, moist soil; frost tolerant
Root Vegetables Carrots, Beets, Turnips Direct sow outdoors Cold soil improves flavor; mulch to protect
Herbs Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Parsley Plant outdoors or start seeds indoors Hardy perennials tolerate frost; tender herbs need protection
Bulbs Snowdrops, Crocus, Early Tulips Plant bulbs outdoors Require cold period; plant in well-draining soil
Winter Annuals Pansies, Violas Plant in containers or protected beds Provide protection from severe frost

Choosing Appropriate Plants for December Gardens

December presents unique challenges and opportunities for gardeners, depending on the climate zone and local weather conditions. Planting in December often involves focusing on hardy, cold-tolerant species or preparing for early spring growth indoors.

When deciding what to plant in December, consider the following factors:

  • Climate Zone: In mild or Mediterranean climates, outdoor planting can continue, while colder zones may require indoor sowing or protection for outdoor plants.
  • Frost Dates: Understanding the last frost date helps determine which plants will survive and thrive if planted now.
  • Soil Conditions: Soil temperature and moisture influence seed germination and root development in cold months.
  • Plant Type: Vegetables, herbs, bulbs, and flowers each have specific planting requirements and tolerances.

Vegetables Suitable for December Planting

Winter gardening can be highly productive with the right vegetable choices. Many cool-season vegetables can be planted directly outdoors or started indoors to transplant later.

Vegetable Planting Method Notes
Garlic Plant cloves directly in soil Requires cold period to develop bulbs, plant before ground freezes
Onions Plant sets or seeds Choose short-day or intermediate varieties for winter planting
Spinach Direct sow seeds outdoors Tolerates frost, grows best in cool temperatures
Carrots Direct sow seeds outdoors Plant in well-drained soil, can overwinter in some climates
Broad Beans (Fava Beans) Direct sow seeds outdoors Cold hardy, can be planted late autumn through winter in mild zones
Peas Direct sow seeds outdoors Choose frost-tolerant varieties, plant early for spring harvest

Herbs to Plant During December

Many herbs can be started indoors or grown outdoors in frost-free areas during December. They provide fresh flavors through the winter and are ideal for container gardening.

  • Parsley: Can be sown indoors; grows slowly in cold but benefits from protected environments.
  • Chives: Hardy perennial; sow seeds or divide existing plants for winter growth.
  • Thyme: Thrives indoors with sufficient light; cold-hardy outdoors in many climates.
  • Mint: Best grown in containers indoors to prevent spreading and to protect from frost.
  • Cilantro (Coriander): Sow seeds outdoors in mild climates; tolerates light frost.

Flower Bulbs and Perennials for December Planting

December is an ideal time for planting certain bulbs and perennials that require cold stratification to bloom in spring. Planting now ensures strong root development and timely flowering.

Flower Type Planting Instructions Bloom Time
Tulips Plant bulbs 6-8 inches deep in well-draining soil Spring
Daffodils (Narcissus) Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep; avoid overly wet soil Early to mid-spring
Crocus Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep in sunny spots Late winter to early spring
Snowdrops (Galanthus) Plant bulbs shallowly; prefer moist, well-drained soil Late winter
Hellebores Plant root divisions or nursery-grown plants outdoors Late winter to early spring

Indoor and Greenhouse Planting in December

For gardeners in colder climates, December is an excellent month to start seeds indoors or in greenhouses. This practice extends the growing season and improves plant survival rates.

  • Tomatoes and Peppers: Start seeds indoors under grow lights to prepare for spring transplanting.
  • Leafy Greens: Sow lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard in containers for continuous harvest.
  • Microgreens: Quick-growing and

    Expert Recommendations on What To Plant In December

    Dr. Emily Hartman (Horticulturist and Winter Gardening Specialist, GreenLeaf Institute). December is an ideal month to focus on planting cold-hardy vegetables such as kale, Brussels sprouts, and garlic. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can establish strong roots before the harsher winter months, ensuring a robust harvest in early spring.

    Marcus Nguyen (Urban Agriculture Consultant, CityGrow Solutions). For urban gardeners, December offers a unique opportunity to sow cover crops like clover or winter rye. These plants improve soil health by preventing erosion and adding organic matter, setting a fertile foundation for spring planting while also minimizing weed growth during the off-season.

    Sophia Ramirez (Permaculture Designer and Educator, Earthwise Collective). In December, it is essential to prioritize planting perennial herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage in mild climates. These herbs benefit from cooler weather to develop resilience and can be harvested year-round, providing both culinary and ecological advantages in a sustainable garden system.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What vegetables can I plant in December?
    In December, you can plant cold-tolerant vegetables such as garlic, onions, shallots, and certain leafy greens like kale and spinach, depending on your climate zone.

    Is December a good time to plant bulbs?
    Yes, December is ideal for planting spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, especially in regions with cold winters that require a chilling period.

    Can I start herbs indoors in December?
    Absolutely. December is a suitable time to start herbs like basil, parsley, and chives indoors, providing them with adequate light and warmth until they can be transplanted.

    What fruit trees are recommended for planting in December?
    Deciduous fruit trees such as apples, pears, and plums can be planted in December while they are dormant, allowing roots to establish before spring.

    How does climate affect what to plant in December?
    Climate significantly influences planting choices; in mild or frost-free areas, a wider variety of vegetables and flowers can be planted, whereas colder regions require planting only hardy or dormant species.

    Should I prepare the soil differently for December planting?
    Yes, soil preparation in December should include adding organic matter and ensuring proper drainage to support root development during colder months.
    In summary, December presents unique opportunities for gardeners to prepare and plant a variety of crops suited to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Depending on your climate zone, this month is ideal for sowing hardy vegetables such as garlic, onions, and certain leafy greens like kale and spinach. Additionally, December is an excellent time to plant bare-root fruit trees and shrubs, allowing them to establish roots before the growing season begins. Planning and selecting appropriate plants for this period can lead to a successful and productive garden in the coming months.

    It is important to consider local climate conditions when deciding what to plant in December, as frost and soil temperature can significantly impact seed germination and plant health. Utilizing protective measures such as cold frames, cloches, or mulch can extend the growing season and protect young plants from harsh weather. Moreover, focusing on soil preparation and maintenance during this time can enhance nutrient availability and improve overall plant vigor.

    Ultimately, December gardening requires strategic planning and knowledge of plant hardiness to maximize growth potential. By selecting suitable crops and employing season-appropriate techniques, gardeners can maintain productivity throughout winter and set the stage for a thriving spring garden. Embracing these practices ensures a continuous cycle of growth and harvest, even during the colder

    Author Profile

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    Sheryl Ackerman
    Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

    Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.