What vegetable and herb seeds can I sow in December?

Sowing seeds in December is contingent on your location and the prevailing climate. In the Northern Hemisphere, December is typically winter, and in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s summer. Here are some vegetable and herb seeds you can consider sowing in December:

Northern Hemisphere: Winter Planting (Indoors or in Protected Spaces)

1. Microgreens: While not a specific plant, microgreens encompass various vegetables and herbs harvested at an early stage. You can grow microgreens indoors throughout the winter for a quick and nutritious addition to salads and dishes. Common choices include arugula, radishes, and mustard.
2. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa): Opt for varieties that are cold-tolerant and suitable for winter gardening. Grow lettuce in containers or protected spaces to shield them from extreme cold.
3. Arugula (Eruca sativa): Arugula is a fast-growing green that can be sown indoors in pots during December. It’s cold-tolerant and adds a peppery flavor to salads.
4. Winter Spinach (Spinacia oleracea): Like lettuce, choose spinach varieties adapted to winter conditions. Sow seeds indoors in December for later transplanting or grow them in protected spaces.
5. Kale (Brassica oleracea acephala): Kale is a hardy leafy green that thrives in cool temperatures. Start seeds indoors, and once the seedlings are established, consider transplanting them to outdoor containers or protected garden beds.
6. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Chives are a perennial herb that can be grown indoors throughout the winter. Plant seeds in pots and place them on a sunny windowsill.
7. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum): Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures, making it suitable for winter cultivation. Grow cilantro indoors in pots, ensuring it receives ample sunlight.
8. Winter Radishes (Raphanus sativus): Winter radishes, such as daikon radishes, can be grown indoors in containers during the winter. They add a crisp and peppery taste to salads.
9. Winter Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage): Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage are often hardy and can withstand winter conditions. Start these herbs from seeds or cuttings indoors and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up.
10. Onions (Allium cepa): In milder climates, you can start onions from seeds indoors in December. Transplant the seedlings to the garden when the weather permits.

Southern Hemisphere: Summer Planting

1. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum): December is an ideal time to start tomato seeds indoors for later transplantation outdoors in early summer. Ensure they receive sufficient sunlight.
2. Peppers (Capsicum annuum): Begin pepper seeds indoors in December for transplanting outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. Choose varieties suited for your local climate.
3. Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo): Zucchini is a warm-season vegetable that can be started from seeds indoors in December and transplanted outdoors once the weather warms up.
4. Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus): Similar to zucchini, cucumber seeds can be started indoors in December and transplanted outdoors in spring.
5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Basil is a warm-season herb that can be started from seeds indoors in December. Transplant the seedlings outdoors in spring once the weather is consistently warm.
6. Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris): Bush beans and pole beans can be directly sown in the garden in December. They prefer well-drained soil and full sunlight.
7. Corn (Zea mays): Corn is a warm-season crop that can be sown directly in the garden in December. Ensure the soil is well-drained and has sufficient nutrients.
8. Dill (Anethum graveolens): Dill is a herb that prefers warmer temperatures. Sow dill seeds directly in the garden or in containers in December for a spring and summer harvest.
9. Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo): Cantaloupes, also known as muskmelons, can be started from seeds indoors in December in the Southern Hemisphere. Transplant them outdoors once the weather is warm and frost-free.
10. Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Lavender is a perennial herb that can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Start lavender seeds indoors in December and transplant outdoors when the weather is consistently warm.

Regardless of your hemisphere, adapt your planting choices to your specific climate and local frost dates. Provide proper care, including watering, fertilization, and pest control, to ensure the success of your garden. Adjustments such as using cloches, row covers, or indoor containers can help protect plants from extreme conditions. Happy gardening!