As the colder weather takes hold, December may seem like an unlikely time to plant, but there are still hardy bulbs and seeds that can be sown now.
With a little patience, these winter plantings will reward you with beautiful flowers and crops in the coming months.
It’s also a great time for indoor gardening projects to enjoy with the kids.
Snowdrop Bulbs
Snowdrops are some of the first flowers to appear in early spring, often pushing through the snow. These delicate white flowers are easy to plant and will naturalize well in your garden, creating lovely clusters each year. Plant them in a shady or partially shaded spot in December for a magical late-winter bloom.
Garlic Bulbs
Garlic is a surprisingly hardy crop, and December is the perfect time to plant it. You can plant individual cloves directly into a well-prepared outdoor bed or in containers. Kids will enjoy the simple process of planting and watching as green shoots emerge in early spring. By summer, they’ll be thrilled to harvest their very own flavorful garlic bulbs for cooking!
Lily Bulbs
Lilies are elegant, tall flowers that can be planted in December for a summer bloom. They come in various colors, from bright whites to deep reds, and their large flowers make a dramatic statement. Plant them outdoors in a sunny spot, and your kids will be excited to see how tall they grow!
Peas
Peas are another hardy crop that can be sown in December. The seeds will slowly germinate over winter and start growing as soon as the weather warms in spring. Kids will have fun planting the seeds in rows and watching the vines climb as they grow.
Anemone Bulbs
Anemones are vibrant, cheerful flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. Planting them in December means you’ll be greeted by a beautiful splash of color when the weather gets warmer. They thrive in both sunny and partially shaded areas and are easy to grow, making them a great choice for young gardeners.
By planting in the cooler months, you and your children can look forward to a beautiful, blossoming garden come spring. Whether it’s flowers, vegetables, or garlic, there are plenty of options to keep the gardening fun going all year round!