As the days lengthen and the cold sets in, the urge to start sowing seeds for the upcoming growing season begins to stir. But why wait until spring? December offers the perfect opportunity to sow several crops that will thrive in the cooler months, offering early harvests, culinary delights, and beautiful plants. Here’s a look at some excellent choices to sow this month, and the tips to ensure a successful crop.
1. Cilantro (Coriander) – A Winter Herb for Fresh Leaves
Cilantro is a versatile herb that thrives in cooler temperatures. One common challenge with cilantro is bolting – when the plant runs to seed. While this is great for coriander, it’s not ideal if you want fresh, aromatic leaves. Sowing in autumn or winter helps avoid premature bolting, as the plant is less likely to bolt in shorter, colder days.
To boost your germination rates, consider pre-sprouting your cilantro seeds. Wrap them in a cloth, secure it with a rubber band, and soak it overnight. Keep the cloth damp and check it twice a day. Once sprouted, gently transfer the seeds to a seed tray filled with potting mix and compost. Place the tray in a cold frame or greenhouse to protect the young plants from extreme weather. Harvest leaves once they reach 6 inches tall, and with a bit of care, you may even get a second cut.
A bonus: After harvesting, allow the plant to flower and collect the seeds to use for future sowings, saving you money on seed purchases.
2. Shallots – A Hardy Winter Crop for Sophisticated Dishes
Shallots add a refined touch to any dish, and they are incredibly hardy, making them an excellent choice for planting in winter. If your soil is frozen, start them in plug trays with a mix of potting soil and compost. Plant the small shallot sets just below the surface and keep them in a cold frame or sheltered spot. Come spring, transplant them into well-drained, sunny soil, spaced about 6 inches apart.
Shallots take several months to mature but are ready to harvest in early summer. Their ability to store for long periods means you can enjoy your harvest well into the next winter, making them a valuable crop.
3. Supersized Onions – Start Early for Giant Bulbs
If you’re aiming for giant onions—ideal for vegetable shows or just to impress your family and friends—December is the time to start them. While standard onions can be sowed later in the winter, supersized varieties require an early start. Sift some all-purpose potting mix and fill a plug tray. Plant two seeds per plug, carefully thinning out any weaker seedlings.
For optimal growth, grow your onions indoors initially, ensuring they have consistent warmth and light. Once they sprout, move them into a cold frame or greenhouse. If you’re growing them for size, you might consider using grow lights to mimic the longer daylight hours needed for the best growth.
4. Basil – Fresh Flavors in Winter
Basil is typically a summer herb, but it can be grown indoors during winter with a little help from grow lights. Plant basil on a sunny windowsill or under artificial lighting to provide consistent warmth and light. The ‘Genovese’ variety is ideal, known for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking.
To sow, lightly cover the seeds with potting mix and mist the surface to maintain humidity. If using grow lights, keep them on for about 14 hours a day and raise them as the seedlings grow. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage more growth, and you can enjoy fresh basil even in the middle of winter.
5. Microgreens – Small Crops, Big Flavor
Microgreens, such as sunflower, pea, and mustard greens, are perfect for winter sowing. These tiny plants pack a punch of flavor and are incredibly easy to grow. You can sow them in shallow trays or containers with drainage holes. Soak seeds overnight for quicker germination, then spread them thinly over the soil and mist lightly.
While microgreens don’t require grow lights, they will grow faster with them. In a well-lit area, they’ll thrive and be ready to harvest in just one to two weeks, making them a perfect addition to salads and sandwiches during the winter months.
Conclusion
Winter sowing offers the opportunity to get a jumpstart on your garden. Whether you’re growing cilantro for fresh leaves, shallots for long-term storage, or supersized onions for show, these crops will reward your efforts come spring. And don’t forget the joy of growing basil and microgreens indoors, bringing fresh flavors into your kitchen no matter the weather outside. By sowing these winter crops, you’ll reap the rewards that many gardeners miss, ensuring a vibrant, successful garden year-round.