December in the Southwest, particularly in Zone 9b, is a unique time for gardeners. With mild winters and plenty of sunshine, the garden can thrive while much of the country lies dormant. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your garden flourishes this month.
What to Plant in December
Vegetables
- Cool-Season Crops: Now is a great time to plant leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard. These crops thrive in the cooler temperatures.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets, and turnips can be sown directly into the ground.
- Onions and Garlic: These can be planted for a harvest next spring or summer.
Herbs
- Cold-Tolerant Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, dill, and thyme grow well in cooler conditions.
- Potted Herbs: Consider planting rosemary or oregano in containers for easy mobility and protection during frost warnings.
Flowers
- Annuals: Pansies, violas, and snapdragons add color to the winter garden.
- Perennials: Plant hardy varieties like lavender and echinacea for blooms in the spring.
Garden Maintenance Tips
Frost Protection
- Cover sensitive plants with frost cloth or blankets on chilly nights.
- Move potted plants to sheltered areas if frost is expected.
Mulching
- Add a layer of mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperatures.
- Use organic materials like straw, bark, or shredded leaves.
Watering
- Adjust your watering schedule based on rainfall. Overwatering can lead to root rot during cooler months.
- Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before evening.
Pruning and Cleanup
- Prune Trees and Shrubs: Remove dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to prepare them for spring growth.
- Clean Up Debris: Rake fallen leaves and clear out any plant debris to prevent pests and diseases.
Pest and Disease Management
- Check for pests like aphids and whiteflies on winter crops and ornamental plants.
- Apply organic pest control methods, such as neem oil, if needed.
Planning for Spring
- Soil Preparation: Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels to make adjustments before spring planting.
- Seed Selection: Start planning your spring garden and ordering seeds for warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers.
- Tool Maintenance: Sharpen and clean gardening tools to ensure they’re ready for heavy use in the spring.
Indoor Gardening Projects
- Grow Microgreens: Use a sunny windowsill to grow microgreens like mustard, arugula, or sunflower sprouts.
- Start Seedlings: Begin germinating seeds indoors for a head start on spring planting.
Wildlife-Friendly Gardening
- Provide water sources for birds and other wildlife.
- Plant native species that offer food and shelter for local fauna.
Southwest Gardening Challenges and Solutions
- Frost: Monitor local weather forecasts and be prepared with frost protection materials.
- Low Humidity: Use drip irrigation or misting to maintain adequate moisture levels for delicate plants.
By following these tips, your Southwest Zone 9b garden can remain vibrant and productive throughout December. Enjoy the unique opportunities this mild winter climate provides, and start preparing for a lush and fruitful spring!
Here are some product suggestions to help your garden thrive in the colder seasons.
Frost Protection
- Frost blankets or covers
- Floating row covers
- Cold frames or mini greenhouses
- Protective plant wraps or jackets for trees
Mulching
- Organic mulch materials like straw or bark mulch
- Decorative garden mulches for aesthetics
Garden Maintenance
- Electric pruning shears
- Compost bins for plant debris
- Leaf vacuum with bag
- Soil testing kits to check pH and nutrients
Pest and Disease Management
- Neem oil or insecticidal soaps
- Sticky traps for aphids and whiteflies
- Natural pest deterrents like diatomaceous earth