What plants should be planted in December?

As winter sets in, gardeners may wonder what plants can thrive during the chilly month of December. The answer is quite a few, and the choices are not just limited to evergreens or hardy shrubs. In fact, December is an ideal time to plant a variety of flowers, fruits, and vegetables that will bring life to your garden even in the coldest months.

Some of the best plants to consider for December planting include roses, daffodils, tulips, lilies, and pansies. These flowers are not only resilient but will also bloom beautifully come springtime. For those looking to add some edibles to their garden, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and onions are all excellent choices.

Flowers are a great addition to any garden, and December is no exception. Hardy blooms like roses, daffodils, tulips, lilies, and pansies can withstand the cold and will reward you with their vibrant colors come spring. These flowers not only add beauty to your garden but also attract beneficial insects and pollinators.

For those who prefer edibles, December is a good time to plant strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and onions. These fruits and vegetables can be started indoors or in a greenhouse and later transplanted outside when the weather warms up. They provide fresh produce for your kitchen and can be a fun project for the whole family.

Herbs like rosemary and oregano are also suitable for planting in December. These can be grown indoors on a sunny windowsill and used to add flavor to your winter meals.

Four plants recommended to plant during this month

•    Crocus (Crocus sativus): Known as red gold, it is a bulbous plant that blooms in winter. December is the ideal time to plant bulbs, as they need a cold period to stimulate their growth. Remember that in addition to decorating, saffron is a very precious commodity in the kitchen.

•    Pansies (Viola tricolor): They are very resistant winter flowers that will bring vitality to your garden during the coldest months of the year. They can be planted in December to enjoy their vibrant range of colors in the spring. These plants are ideal for pots and gardens, and their ability to withstand low temperatures makes them the perfect choice for this season.

•    Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): If you want to add fresh herbs to your cooking, December is a perfect time to plant parsley. This fast-growing herb thrives in cool climates and can withstand winter temperatures.

•    Deciduous fruit trees:  Apple trees, pear trees, plum trees... These are trees that need a period of dormancy (a state of rest in growth) during the winter to develop strong roots before spring.

• Vegetables
  • Red kale
  • Edible dill
  • Super-hot chillies
  • Wild rocket
  • Elephant garlic
  • Potted mint
  • Chicory and chicons
  • Garlic
  • Broad beans
  • Sweet peas
• Flowering plants
  • Petunia
  • Marigold
  • Calendula
  • Dahlia
  • Cineraria
  • Cyclamen
  • Christmas rose
  • Snowdrops

It’s important to note that while December offers many planting opportunities, it’s not the best time for fruit trees and shrubs due to the hard ground. However, with the right care and protection, such as using cloches or cold frames, many plants can thrive even in the colder months.

Gardening in December can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to get a head start on the next year’s garden and enjoy the outdoors, even in winter. With a little planning and care, your garden can be a source of joy and beauty throughout the year. So, grab your gloves and get planting! Remember, a little effort now will pay off with a lush, vibrant garden in the months to come. Happy gardening!

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