Winter may seem like a time to let your garden rest, but as a father of energetic twins who love digging in the dirt as much as I do, I can tell you there’s still plenty of gardening joy to be found in December. While the world quiets down, it’s a perfect moment to plant seeds, bulbs, and memories that will bloom for seasons to come.
Here’s our guide to making the most of winter planting, written from the heart of a dad who’s learned that gardening isn’t just about growing plants—it’s about growing together.
Embracing Winter Gardening
“Dad, are we still gardening even though it’s cold?” my son asked one frosty morning as I pulled on my boots. His sister chimed in, “Yeah, won’t the plants freeze?”
That’s the magic of winter gardening, I told them. Some plants are like superheroes—they thrive when the temperatures drop, and December is their time to shine. We don’t let the cold stop us; instead, we let it inspire us to try something new. Side-note, it never really gets all that cold in San Diego, not like other parts of the country where you have snow to deal with.
Winter gardening teaches patience and hope. You tuck bulbs into the earth, not for instant gratification, but for the promise of spring blooms. You plant greens knowing they’ll make the perfect hearty soup in a few weeks. It’s a reminder that nature, much like parenting, rewards consistent care and trust in the process.
Plants That Thrive in Winter Soil
Winter planting isn’t about battling the elements; it’s about working with them. My twins are pros at spotting the “hardy” plants—those that don’t flinch in frosty weather. Here are some family favorites we’ve planted over the years:
- Kale and Spinach: These leafy greens love the cold and are easy for little hands to plant. The twins love “harvesting missions” to snip fresh leaves for dinner.
- Garlic: Planting garlic cloves in December means flavorful harvests come summer. The twins have even named a few of the cloves they’ve planted. (Apparently, “Garlicy Cloverson” is a thing.)
- Onions: These versatile veggies grow slowly through the winter, making them a lesson in patience.
- Winter Greens: Swiss chard and mustard greens add a splash of color to our winter beds and a bit of spice to our meals.
For the twins, planting these cold-weather champs is an adventure. For me, it’s a way to teach them that resilience comes in many forms—even as a plant thriving in the frost.
Bulbs to Plant in December for Spring Blooms
“Dad, why are we burying these onions without their green tops?” my daughter asked the first time we planted tulip bulbs. It took some explaining (and a lot of giggling) to help her understand that these weren’t onions—they were bulbs that would grow into flowers.
In December, our family garden transforms into a treasure chest. We bury bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, knowing that spring will reveal the jewels we’ve hidden. Here’s how we do it:
- Choose the Right Spot: The twins are in charge of finding sunny spots for our bulbs. It’s like a scavenger hunt with a purpose.
- Plant at the Right Depth: We dig deep enough to keep the bulbs cozy during winter. My son is the “depth checker,” proudly wielding his small ruler.
- Cover and Wait: Once the bulbs are planted, we cover them with soil and sometimes a bit of mulch for extra protection.
It’s magical to watch their excitement grow as they imagine the colorful flowers that will burst forth in spring. It’s a little like Christmas in the garden—except the presents take a bit longer to appear.
Essential Tips for Winter Planting Success
Winter planting comes with its challenges, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a joyful experience. Here’s what our family has learned:
- Gear Up: Warm gloves, sturdy boots, and waterproof coats make winter gardening more fun (and less soggy). The twins love their Terra Tough hand tools, which somehow dig faster than mine.
- Work with the Weather: We pick milder days for planting, avoiding times when it looks like rain.
- Frost Protection: We use straw, mulch, or even an old blanket to protect tender plants from harsh frosts – it does happen on occasion.
- Keep the Fun Alive: Gardening with kids is about making it fun. From singing “planting songs” to racing to see who can plant the most bulbs, there’s always laughter in our garden.
Heartwarming Winter Gardening Stories
One of my favorite winter gardening memories happened when the kids were about five. That year we decided to plant garlic. As we worked, we started naming each clove (yes, this is where “Garlicy Cloverson” originated). They giggled as they created stories about the “Garlic Family,” imagining their adventures underground.
By spring, the garlic had sprouted, and the twins were convinced their “Garlic Family” had grown taller to see the sunshine. When we finally harvested the bulbs in summer, they beamed with pride, knowing they’d helped bring life to the garden.
It’s these small, shared moments that make winter gardening so special. It’s not just about the plants—it’s about the love and memories we plant alongside them.
Winter Gardening FAQs
Whenever we talk about winter gardening, friends and neighbors ask questions. Here are some answers to the most common ones:
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“Can you really plant in December?”
Absolutely! Hardy plants and bulbs love the cooler soil and get a head start before spring. -
“What if the ground is frozen?”
If the ground is frozen solid, wait for a thaw. It’s also a good idea to prepare planting beds earlier in the season if you can. -
“How do you keep plants from freezing?”
Mulch is our best friend! It insulates the soil and keeps the frost from damaging roots. -
“Can kids really help with winter gardening?”
100%! Winter gardening is a great way to get kids outside and teach them about nature’s cycles. Just be prepared for muddy boots and lots of questions!
The Gift of a Winter Garden
Winter gardening has become a family tradition for us. It’s a time to connect, create, and cultivate hope during the quietest season. As the twins and I dig, plant, and dream of blooms to come, I’m reminded that gardening is more than a hobby—it’s a way to nurture life and love.
So grab your gloves, your bulbs, and maybe a few enthusiastic little helpers, and embrace the joy of winter planting. Because even in the coldest months, the garden has warmth to share. And be sure to shop Yard Butler for all of your garden tool needs. Everything from digging and tilling tools to hose hangers and reels guaranteed for life.
