December Gardening in Alabama
December is quiet—but useful.
This is the month to maintain, observe, and plan.
This Month’s Priorities
Focus on:
- Garden planning
- Winter crop maintenance
- Tool care
- Seed inventory
- Orchard inspection
- Soil protection
Harvest Hardy Crops
Continue harvesting:
- Kale
- Collards
- Turnips
- Carrots
- Spinach
- Lettuce
depending on weather and location.
Protect During Hard Freezes
Use:
- Frost cloth
- Row cover
- Mulch
to protect vulnerable crops.
Review the Year
Write down:
- Best varieties
- Worst performers
- Pest problems
- Harvest dates
- Soil issues
- Favorite crops
Inventory Seeds
Discard damaged packets.
Organize remaining seed.
Clean Tools
Clean and sharpen:
- Pruners
- Shovels
- Hoes
Oil metal surfaces when appropriate.
Check Irrigation
Drain or protect exposed components if hard freezes are expected.
Orchard Inspection
Check:
- Trunks
- Tree guards
- Mulch
- Deer fencing
Plan Next Year
Decide:
- Bed locations
- Crop rotation
- New varieties
- Orchard additions
- Garden projects
GardenGrowz Tip
December is where next year’s garden quietly begins.