Posted on Dec 1, 2023 at 8:00 am by Emma V
The winter period may seem unfavorable for gardening, but it is actually the ideal time to prepare your vegetable garden and ensure a bountiful harvest in the spring.
In fact, some vegetables need a period of dormancy in the cold to develop properly and offer their best flavors.
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Why sow certain vegetables in December and how to choose them well?
Here are some tips for choosing vegetables to sow in December:
- Opt for cold-resistant varieties: these vegetables will be able to withstand winter temperatures and will require less maintenance.
- Take into account the development time: some vegetables take longer to grow than others, so it is important to plant them early enough to be able to harvest them in the spring.
The vegetables that must be sown in December
Here is a non-exhaustive list of vegetables that you can start sowing as early as December:
- Onion: white onion is a must-have in the vegetable garden. It can be sown as early as December under cover or directly in the ground in regions with mild winters. It is important to leave about 10 cm between each plant so that they have enough space to develop.
- Garlic: garlic is another root vegetable highly appreciated in French cuisine. It is planted in December, preferably in the ground, and requires about 20 cm of space between each plant.
- Peas: peas are legumes that appreciate the cold and can be sown as early as December. They will need support to climb, such as a trellis or net, and should be spaced about 5 cm apart for good growth.
- Spinach: this leafy plant is rich in vitamins and minerals and can be sown as early as December under cover or in the ground in regions with mild winters. Leave about 10 cm between each plant for optimal growth.
Best practices for successful December sowing
In order to optimize your chances of success with these winter sowings, here are some tips to follow:
- Use a suitable substrate: choose a specific seed compost, light and well-draining, to promote seed germination.
- Prefer sowing under cover: if your region is prone to frequent frosts or snow, it is preferable to carry out your sowings under a greenhouse or frame to protect the young plants from bad weather.
- Water carefully: watering should be moderate and regular, to prevent the seeds from rotting in overly moist soil. Preferably use water at room temperature to avoid shocking the young plants.
- Monitor the temperature: in general, a temperature between 10 and 15°C is ideal for the germination of vegetables sown in December. Do not hesitate to use a thermometer to check that your shelter maintains an adequate temperature.
Follow these tips to prepare your vegetable garden as early as December
By following these recommendations, you will be able to successfully plant and cultivate your vegetables as early as December. This period is favorable for gardening as it allows you to prepare the ground in advance and ensure a generous harvest next spring. So do not hesitate to embark on this beautiful adventure of winter gardening!
