As winter settles in across Europe, the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, but that doesn’t mean the gardening season is over. In fact, December offers unique opportunities to continue harvesting fresh produce and prepare your garden for the months ahead. With careful planning and the right techniques, you can make the most of the short days, ensuring your garden remains productive and vibrant even in the depths of winter. This guide will explore the essential tasks and strategies for December gardening, focusing on winter harvests, protection, and preparation for the coming year.
Embracing Winter Gardening in Europe
Winter gardening in Europe requires an understanding of the regional climate and how it affects plant growth. While the colder temperatures and reduced daylight hours present challenges, they also offer advantages for certain crops and tasks.
Understanding the European Winter Climate
Europe’s winter climate varies significantly depending on location. Northern Europe, including countries like Scandinavia and the UK, experiences colder temperatures and shorter days, while Southern Europe, such as Spain and Italy, enjoys milder winters with more sunlight. Regardless of location, winter gardening requires adapting to these conditions to optimize growth and harvest.
The Impact of Short Days
The reduced daylight hours in December mean that plants have less time for photosynthesis, slowing growth and limiting the types of crops that can thrive. However, many winter vegetables are well-suited to these conditions and can still produce bountiful harvests.
- Photoperiod Sensitivity: Some plants are more sensitive to the length of daylight and may enter dormancy or significantly slow their growth during the winter months. Understanding which plants are less affected by shorter days can help you choose the right crops for your winter garden.
- Cold Tolerance: Many winter crops are cold-tolerant and can survive frost and even light snow. These plants are essential for maintaining a productive garden in December.
The Benefits of Winter Harvests
While winter gardening may seem daunting, it offers several benefits, including fresher produce, extended growing seasons, and improved soil health.
Fresh, Homegrown Produce
One of the most compelling reasons to engage in winter gardening is the ability to harvest fresh, homegrown produce even when the weather is cold. Vegetables like leeks, Brussels sprouts, and kale often taste better after a frost, as the cold temperatures cause them to convert starches into sugars, enhancing their flavor.
- Nutritional Value: Winter vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, providing essential nutrients during a time when fresh produce can be scarce.
- Reduced Food Miles: Growing your own vegetables in winter reduces the need to buy imported produce, cutting down on food miles and supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Extending the Growing Season
By continuing to garden through December, you can extend the growing season and make better use of your garden space year-round. This not only increases your overall yield but also helps to keep the soil active and healthy.
- Succession Planting: Winter gardening allows for succession planting, where you plant crops in intervals to ensure a continuous harvest. This strategy can be particularly effective with crops like lettuce and spinach.
- Seasonal Rotation: Rotating crops between seasons helps manage soil fertility and reduces the risk of pest and disease buildup.
Soil Health and Maintenance
Winter gardening isn’t just about growing crops; it’s also an opportunity to maintain and improve your soil. By keeping the soil covered with plants or mulch, you can protect it from erosion, retain moisture, and build fertility for the next growing season.
- Cover Crops: Planting cover crops, also known as green manure, in the winter can improve soil structure, add organic matter, and fix nitrogen levels, preparing the soil for spring planting.
- Mulching: Mulching around winter crops helps insulate the soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds, all of which contribute to healthier soil.
What to Harvest in December
December is not just a time for maintenance; there are plenty of crops that can be harvested throughout the month. Many of these vegetables have been growing slowly through autumn and are now at their peak.
1. Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are a staple of the winter garden. They are hardy, store well in the ground, and can be harvested as needed, making them an excellent choice for December harvesting.
A. Carrots
Carrots are one of the most versatile root vegetables, and they often taste sweeter after a frost. This is because the cold temperatures cause the plant to convert stored starches into sugars.
- Harvesting Tips: To harvest carrots in December, loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork before gently pulling them out. If the ground is frozen, covering the carrot bed with straw or leaves can help prevent the soil from becoming too hard.
- Varieties: ‘Autumn King’ and ‘Nantes’ are excellent varieties for winter harvesting due to their cold tolerance and ability to store well in the ground.
B. Parsnips
Parsnips are another root vegetable that benefits from the cold. Like carrots, they become sweeter after exposure to frost.
- Harvesting Tips: Parsnips can be left in the ground until you’re ready to use them. Use a garden fork to lift the roots carefully, as they can grow deep and may snap if pulled too hard.
- Varieties: ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Tender and True’ are popular winter-harvesting varieties known for their sweet flavor and smooth texture.
C. Beetroots
Beetroots are hardy and can remain in the ground well into winter. They are perfect for winter salads, roasting, or pickling.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest beetroots when they are around the size of a tennis ball. Larger beets can become woody, so it’s best to pick them before they get too big. Covering the soil with mulch can help keep the roots from freezing.
- Varieties: ‘Detroit Dark Red’ and ‘Boltardy’ are reliable choices for winter harvesting, offering a deep color and robust flavor.
2. Brassicas
Brassicas are well-known for their cold hardiness and are often at their best during the winter months. December is an ideal time to harvest these nutrient-rich vegetables.
A. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a classic winter vegetable that thrives in cold weather. The small, cabbage-like buds are packed with flavor and nutrients.
- Harvesting Tips: Start harvesting Brussels sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards. The buds should be firm and tightly closed. Frost improves their flavor, so don’t rush to harvest them all at once.
- Varieties: ‘Diablo’ and ‘Rubine’ are popular varieties for their excellent cold tolerance and flavorful sprouts.
B. Kale
Kale is incredibly hardy and can survive freezing temperatures, making it a staple of the winter garden. Its leaves become sweeter after frost, and it can be harvested throughout the winter.
- Harvesting Tips: Pick the outer leaves first, allowing the center of the plant to continue growing. Kale can be harvested continually, providing fresh greens all winter long.
- Varieties: ‘Winterbor’ and ‘Red Russian’ are ideal for winter growing, offering both cold tolerance and excellent flavor.
C. Cabbage
Winter cabbages are another excellent crop for December. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stews.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest cabbages when the heads are firm and fully formed. If the weather is particularly harsh, it may be best to cut and store them indoors.
- Varieties: ‘January King’ and ‘Savoy’ are well-suited for winter harvesting, with robust heads that withstand cold weather.
3. Leafy Greens
While many leafy greens struggle in cold weather, some varieties thrive in winter conditions, providing fresh, nutritious leaves even in December.
A. Spinach
Spinach is a cold-tolerant leafy green that can continue to grow through the winter. It’s perfect for salads, sautés, and adding to soups.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest spinach by cutting the outer leaves, allowing the center to continue producing. Spinach can be harvested continuously, ensuring a steady supply of fresh greens.
- Varieties: ‘Winter Giant’ and ‘Bloomsdale Longstanding’ are excellent choices for winter harvesting, known for their cold resistance and tender leaves.
B. Winter Lettuce
Winter lettuce varieties are specifically bred to withstand colder temperatures, making them ideal for December harvesting. They add a fresh crunch to winter salads.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest winter lettuce by picking individual leaves or cutting entire heads. Protect the plants with cloches or fleece during particularly cold spells to extend the harvest.
- Varieties: ‘Winter Density’ and ‘Arctic King’ are reliable winter lettuces, offering crisp leaves and good cold tolerance.
C. Chard
Chard, also known as Swiss chard, is a colorful and nutritious leafy green that can be harvested throughout the winter. Its vibrant stems add color to the garden and plate.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest chard by cutting the outer leaves, allowing the plant to continue producing new growth. Chard is hardy and can survive in temperatures down to -10°C with protection.
- Varieties: ‘Bright Lights’ and ‘Rhubarb Chard’ are popular varieties for winter growing, offering both cold tolerance and striking colors.
4. Herbs
Certain herbs can also be harvested in December, adding fresh flavors to winter dishes. While many herbs go dormant in winter, some hardy varieties continue to produce leaves.
A. Parsley
Parsley is a resilient herb that can survive winter with minimal protection. It’s perfect for adding a fresh, vibrant flavor to soups, stews, and salads.
- Harvesting Tips: Cut parsley leaves as needed, focusing on the outer stems. Protect the plant with mulch or a cloche to extend the harvest into the coldest months.
- Varieties: ‘Moss Curled’ and ‘Italian Giant’ are excellent winter varieties, known for their cold tolerance and robust growth.
B. Thyme
Thyme is a hardy perennial herb that can be harvested year-round, even in winter. Its small, aromatic leaves are perfect for seasoning winter dishes.
- Harvesting Tips: Harvest thyme by cutting sprigs as needed. The plant will continue to produce new growth even in cold weather, although it may slow down during the darkest days of winter.
- Varieties: ‘English Thyme’ and ‘Winter Thyme’ are particularly suited to winter harvesting, offering excellent cold resistance and strong flavor.
C. Rosemary
Rosemary is another perennial herb that can be harvested in December. It’s hardy and remains evergreen throughout the winter, providing fresh sprigs for cooking.
- Harvesting Tips: Cut rosemary sprigs as needed, taking care not to cut back too much of the woody growth. In colder regions, protect the plant with a layer of mulch or by bringing it indoors.
- Varieties: ‘Arp’ and ‘Tuscan Blue’ are popular winter-hardy varieties, known for their strong aroma and robust growth.
Protecting Your Winter Crops
Winter gardening in Europe often requires taking steps to protect your crops from harsh weather conditions, including frost, snow, and strong winds. By using the right protection methods, you can ensure your winter garden remains productive and your plants stay healthy.
1. Using Cloches and Cold Frames
Cloches and cold frames are essential tools for protecting winter crops from the elements. They create a microclimate around the plants, keeping them warmer and shielding them from wind and frost.
Benefits of Cloches and Cold Frames
- Temperature Regulation: Cloches and cold frames trap heat, raising the temperature around the plants by several degrees. This is particularly beneficial on sunny winter days, helping to extend the growing season.
- Frost Protection: By covering plants with cloches or using cold frames, you can protect them from frost damage, which can be especially important for tender crops like lettuce and spinach.
How to Use Cloches and Cold Frames
- Cloches: Place cloches over individual plants or small groups of plants to protect them from frost and cold winds. Ensure there is adequate ventilation during the day to prevent overheating.
- Cold Frames: Cold frames are ideal for protecting larger areas or starting seedlings in winter. Position the cold frame in a sunny location and prop open the lid during the day for ventilation.
2. Mulching for Insulation
Mulching is a simple but effective way to protect winter crops by insulating the soil and roots from extreme cold. It also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Benefits of Mulching
- Soil Insulation: A layer of mulch helps to keep the soil temperature stable, protecting the roots of your plants from freezing temperatures.
- Moisture Retention: Mulch reduces evaporation, ensuring that the soil remains moist even in drier winter conditions.
Best Mulching Practices
- Materials: Use organic materials like straw, leaves, or compost for mulching. These materials will break down over time, adding organic matter to the soil.
- Application: Apply a thick layer of mulch (about 2-4 inches) around the base of your plants. Be careful not to pile mulch directly against the stems, as this can cause rot.
3. Windbreaks and Shelters
Strong winds can cause significant damage to winter crops, particularly those with delicate leaves or tall stalks. Installing windbreaks or shelters can help protect your plants from wind damage.
Benefits of Windbreaks
- Reduced Wind Speed: Windbreaks reduce the speed of the wind, helping to prevent physical damage to plants and reducing the risk of desiccation.
- Temperature Moderation: By blocking cold winds, windbreaks can help maintain a slightly warmer microclimate around your plants.
How to Create Effective Windbreaks
- Natural Windbreaks: Hedges, shrubs, or trees can act as natural windbreaks, providing protection while also enhancing the aesthetics of your garden.
- Artificial Windbreaks: Fences, walls, or screens made of materials like bamboo or shade cloth can also serve as effective windbreaks. Position them on the windward side of your garden to shield crops from prevailing winds.
4. Watering During Winter
Watering is often overlooked in winter gardening, but it’s important to ensure that your plants receive enough moisture, particularly during dry spells.
Importance of Winter Watering
- Preventing Dehydration: Even though plants grow more slowly in winter, they still need water to stay healthy. Dehydration can be a risk during dry, windy weather.
- Avoiding Root Damage: Watering during mild winter days when the soil isn’t frozen helps to prevent root damage caused by dry soil.
Best Practices for Winter Watering
- Water in the Morning: Water plants in the morning so that any excess moisture can evaporate during the day, reducing the risk of frost damage at night.
- Check Soil Moisture: Regularly check the soil moisture around your plants. Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring the water reaches the roots without causing waterlogging.
Preparing for Spring
While December is primarily focused on harvesting and protecting winter crops, it’s also the perfect time to start preparing your garden for the upcoming spring season. Taking care of these tasks now can save you time and effort when the growing season begins.
1. Soil Preparation
Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. Use the winter months to improve your soil’s structure and fertility, ensuring it’s ready for spring planting.
Adding Organic Matter
- Compost: Spread a layer of compost over your garden beds to add nutrients and improve soil structure. Compost also helps retain moisture and supports beneficial soil organisms.
- Manure: Well-rotted manure is an excellent addition to your soil in winter. It provides a slow release of nutrients that will be available to plants in the spring.
Testing and Amending Soil
- Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to check for nutrient levels and pH. Based on the results, you can add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, and apply specific fertilizers to address any deficiencies.
- Amending Soil: Work lime, sulfur, or other amendments into the soil during the winter so they have time to break down and become effective by spring.
2. Tool Maintenance
December is an ideal time to maintain your gardening tools, ensuring they are in good condition and ready for the demands of the growing season.
Cleaning and Sharpening Tools
- Cleaning: Remove soil and debris from your tools using a wire brush or scraper. Wash them with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
- Sharpening: Use a sharpening stone or file to sharpen the edges of your pruners, shears, and hoes. Sharp tools make cleaner cuts and reduce the risk of damaging plants.
Storing Tools Properly
- Storage: Store your tools in a dry, sheltered place such as a shed or garage. Hang them up or place them on racks to keep them off the ground and reduce the risk of rust.
- Oiling: Apply a light coat of oil to metal parts to prevent rust. Linseed oil is ideal for wooden handles to keep them from drying out and cracking.
3. Planning Your Spring Garden
Winter is a great time to plan your garden for the upcoming year. Take the time to evaluate what worked well in the past season and what you’d like to change.
Crop Rotation Planning
- Preventing Disease: Rotate your crops each year to prevent the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests. Plan your garden layout to ensure that plants from the same family are not grown in the same location two years in a row.
- Improving Soil Fertility: Rotating crops also helps maintain soil fertility by alternating nutrient-demanding crops with those that add nutrients back into the soil, such as legumes.
Seed Selection and Ordering
- Choosing Varieties: Decide on the varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers you want to grow in the coming season. Consider trying new varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
- Ordering Seeds: Order seeds early to ensure you get the varieties you want. Many seed companies offer discounts for early orders, and popular varieties can sell out quickly.
Conclusion
December may be a month of short days and cold temperatures, but it’s also a time of opportunity in the garden. By focusing on winter harvests, protecting your crops, and preparing for the spring growing season, you can make the most of this time and keep your garden productive year-round. With careful planning and a few simple techniques, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce even in the depths of winter and set the stage for a bountiful and successful garden in the coming year.
