Winter gardening isn’t just about waiting for spring – December offers opportunities to start growing fresh vegetables, even in cold weather.
While many gardeners hang up their tools for the season, those in the know take advantage of this time to get ahead and ensure early harvests come spring.
The key to successful December planting lies in choosing cold-hardy varieties and providing appropriate protection when needed. From hearty greens to root vegetables, here are 12 vegetables you can start growing this month.
1. Kale
Kale becomes exceptionally sweet and tender when exposed to cold temperatures, making it a perfect winter crop. This nutrient-dense green can withstand temperatures well below freezing, particularly hardy varieties like ‘Red Russian’ and ‘Siberian.’
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Plant kale in well-drained soil for optimal growth and harvest continuously from the lower leaves.
A single plant can produce for up to six months, providing a steady supply of vitamin-rich leaves perfect for soups, salads, and stir-fries.
2. Carrots
Winter-grown carrots develop an intensely sweet flavor as they produce extra sugars to prevent freezing in cold temperatures. These root vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins, making them excellent immune system boosters during winter.
Growing carrots in sandy, well-drained soil allows for optimal root development. Their natural sweetness increases after exposure to frost, making them a delicious and nutritious winter crop.
3. Spinach
Despite its delicate appearance, Spinach demonstrates remarkable cold hardiness, surviving temperatures as low as 15°F. In zones 6 and warmer, it continues producing through winter without protection, making it an excellent choice for winter gardens.
For best results, space spinach plants 2 inches apart in all directions to encourage a spread of leaves rather than singular stems. The young plants survive winter as small rosettes and continue growing in spring.
4. Radishes
Quick-growing radishes, particularly daikon varieties that produce crisp, flavorful roots, are ideal for impatient winter gardeners. When grown in protected conditions, these fast-maturing vegetables can be ready for harvest in as little as three weeks.
Radishes are packed with vitamins B and C and offer numerous health benefits during winter. They help eliminate mucus, ease sore throats, and clear sinuses.
5. Leeks
Leeks develop a more intense flavor after exposure to frost and can remain in the ground throughout winter. Young plants tolerate light frost, while mature plants survive heavy frosts, making them excellent winter vegetables.
Plants leek in loamy, well-drained soil with full sun exposure for best results. Baby leeks can be harvested for larger specimens after two or four months.
6. Garlic
Garlic planted in winter develops strong root systems before spring growth begins. When crushed or chewed, it produces allicin, (ref) a compound that helps boost immune function and may help fight colds and flu.
For maximum health benefits, crush or slice the garlic and let it stand for 10 minutes before cooking.
This practice helps preserve its medicinal properties, including its ability to reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms.
7. Turnips
Turnips are dual-purpose vegetables providing both nutritious roots and greens. They must be planted at least 70 days before the first frost and can help boost the immune system during winter months.
Rich in vitamin C and fiber, turnips help fight colds and other illnesses while promoting digestive health.
They’re particularly beneficial during winter for maintaining a healthy immune system.
8. Rutabaga
Rutabagas require about three months of cool weather to develop fully and taste better after exposure to several frosts. They can continue growing as long as the ground remains workable.
These vegetables are rich in antioxidants and glucosinolates, which help combat tumors and malignant growth. Their lower carbohydrate content makes them excellent for diabetics as an alternative to potatoes.
9. Parsley
These hardy herbs continue producing through winter and can be harvested once they develop 5-10 main stems. Parsley contains high levels of vitamins C, zinc, and A, helping boost immunity and strengthen the immune system. (ref)
Its high folate content supports heart health, while its iron content helps maintain healthy red blood cells and improve sleep quality.
10. Chives
Chives offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them beneficial for winter health. They’re rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that contribute to improved cardiovascular health and immune function.
The plant’s antimicrobial properties make it particularly valuable during cold months. They can help combat harmful bacteria and viruses that affect the respiratory system.
11. Broad Beans
These hardy legumes can be sown outdoors in December for harvests as early as May. In mild conditions, sow directly into the ground, while in colder areas, start them under cloches or fleece for protection.
The seeds typically germinate within two weeks before entering winter dormancy. For best results, choose winter-hardy varieties like ‘Aquadulce’ that can germinate at temperatures as low as 42-50°F.
12. Lettuce
Certain cold-hardy lettuce varieties, like ‘Winter Gem’ and ‘Arctic King, ‘ thrive in lower temperatures. They can be grown in unheated greenhouses or cold frames for continuous winter harvests.
Sow thinly on the surface of quality potting soil and maintain consistent moisture for quick germination.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.