Louisiana’s December warmth allows for planting vegetables that mature before the coldest winter months arrive. If you’re looking for the best vegetables to plant in december in louisiana, you have several cold-hardy options that thrive in the state’s mild winter climate. December gardening here is about working with the cooler temperatures and shorter days to grow a productive winter harvest.
Best Vegetables To Plant In December In Louisiana
December in Louisiana is not a time to put away your garden tools. The weather is still mild enough in most parts of the state to plant a range of vegetables that can handle light frosts. You can start seeds directly in the ground or transplant seedlings for a quicker harvest.
Focus on vegetables that mature in 30 to 60 days. This gives you time to harvest before the coldest weather sets in, usually in January. Here is a breakdown of the top choices.
Leafy Greens For December Planting
Leafy greens are the easiest and most reliable group to plant in December. They grow fast and can take a light freeze without much damage.
- Lettuce: Choose loose-leaf or romaine varieties. They germinate in cool soil and grow quickly. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and thin to 6 inches apart.
- Spinach: This green loves cool weather. It can survive temperatures down to 20°F. Sow seeds ½ inch deep and keep the soil moist.
- Kale: Kale gets sweeter after a frost. It is very hardy and can be harvested leaf by leaf. Plant seeds ½ inch deep in full sun.
- Swiss Chard: This is a colorful and productive green. It tolerates light frost and keeps producing into early spring. Plant seeds 1 inch deep.
- Mustard Greens: These grow fast and have a peppery flavor. They are ready to harvest in about 30 days. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep.
For best results, water your greens regularly but avoid overwatering. Cool soil holds moisture longer, so check the top inch of soil before watering.
Root Vegetables That Thrive In December
Root vegetables are another excellent choice for December planting. They develop slowly in cooler weather, which often results in sweeter, more tender roots.
- Carrots: Plant carrot seeds directly in loose, sandy soil. They need consistent moisture to germinate. Thin seedlings to 2 inches apart. Harvest in 50 to 70 days.
- Radishes: These are the fastest root vegetable. Some varieties are ready in 25 days. Plant seeds ½ inch deep and thin to 1 inch apart.
- Beets: Beets grow well in cool weather. Both the root and the greens are edible. Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed germination. Thin to 3 inches apart.
- Turnips: Turnips are very cold-hardy. They produce both a root and tasty greens. Plant seeds ½ inch deep and thin to 4 inches apart.
- Onions: Plant onion sets or seeds in December for a spring harvest. They need a long growing season. Set bulbs 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart.
Root vegetables need deep, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raising beds or adding compost to improve drainage.
Brassicas For Winter Harvests
Brassicas, or cabbage family crops, are naturally cold-tolerant. They can handle frost and even light snow. December is a great time to plant them in Louisiana.
- Cabbage: Plant transplants for a faster harvest. Space them 12 to 18 inches apart. Cabbage needs full sun and consistent watering.
- Broccoli: Broccoli loves cool weather. It produces large heads if given enough space. Plant transplants 18 inches apart.
- Cauliflower: This crop is a bit more sensitive to frost. Use row covers if a hard freeze is predicted. Space plants 18 inches apart.
- Brussels Sprouts: These take longer to mature, about 80 to 100 days. They are very hardy and taste better after a frost. Plant transplants 24 inches apart.
- Collards: Collards are a Southern staple. They are extremely cold-hardy and can be harvested all winter. Plant seeds ½ inch deep and thin to 12 inches apart.
Brassicas benefit from a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer a few weeks after planting.
Legumes And Other Options
Some legumes and other vegetables can still be planted in December in Louisiana, especially in the southern part of the state.
- Snow Peas: These peas grow well in cool weather. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and provide a trellis for support. Harvest in 50 to 60 days.
- English Peas: Also called garden peas, these need cool temperatures to set pods. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
- Fava Beans: Fava beans are very cold-hardy. They can be planted in December for a spring harvest. Plant seeds 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
- Garlic: Plant garlic cloves in December for a summer harvest. Separate cloves and plant them 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
Peas and beans fix nitrogen in the soil, which benefits later crops. Do not overwater them, as they are prone to rot in cold, wet soil.
Herbs To Plant Alongside Vegetables
Adding herbs to your December garden can boost flavor and deter pests. Many herbs are also cold-hardy.
- Cilantro: This herb bolts quickly in warm weather but grows well in cool conditions. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep.
- Parsley: Parsley is biennial and can survive winter. It grows slowly in cold weather but produces well into spring.
- Chives: Chives are perennial and very cold-hardy. Plant divisions or seeds in December for a long-term herb patch.
- Thyme: Thyme is a low-growing perennial that tolerates frost. It needs well-drained soil and full sun.
Herbs do not need much fertilizer. A light layer of compost in early winter is enough to keep them growing.
Preparing Your December Garden In Louisiana
Before you plant, take time to prepare your garden bed. December soil can be cool and damp, which affects seed germination and root growth.
Soil Preparation Steps
- Test your soil pH. Most vegetables prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add lime if needed to raise pH.
- Remove any leftover summer plants and weeds. This reduces disease and pest problems.
- Add 2 to 3 inches of compost or aged manure. Work it into the top 6 inches of soil.
- Rake the bed smooth. Remove rocks and clumps for better seed-to-soil contact.
- Water the bed a day before planting. Moist soil helps seeds germinate faster.
If you have heavy clay soil, consider using raised beds. They warm up faster and drain better in winter.
Frost Protection Tips
Even in Louisiana, December can bring frost. Protect your young plants with these methods.
- Use row covers or frost cloth. These lightweight fabrics let light and water through but trap heat.
- Mulch around plants with straw or leaves. Mulch insulates the soil and keeps roots warm.
- Water plants before a frost. Wet soil holds more heat than dry soil.
- Plant in a sheltered location. South-facing walls or fences absorb heat and protect plants from cold winds.
Most of the vegetables listed here can handle light frosts. But if a hard freeze is forecast, cover them overnight and remove the cover in the morning.
Watering In Cool Weather
Watering needs change in December. Cooler temperatures mean less evaporation, so plants need water less often.
- Check soil moisture by sticking your finger 1 inch into the soil. If it feels dry, water.
- Water in the morning. This gives plants time to dry before nightfall, reducing disease risk.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation. This keeps water off the leaves and reduces fungal issues.
- Do not overwater. Soggy soil can cause root rot, especially in cool weather.
Young seedlings need more frequent watering than established plants. Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate.
Common December Gardening Mistakes In Louisiana
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes in winter. Here are some common ones to avoid.
- Planting too late. Some vegetables need 60 days to mature. Check your local frost dates and count backward.
- Using too much fertilizer. Cool soil slows nutrient uptake. Over-fertilizing can burn roots.
- Ignoring pests. Aphids, slugs, and caterpillars can still be active in December. Check plants weekly.
- Planting in wet soil. If the soil is waterlogged, wait a few days after rain to plant.
- Forgetting to harden off transplants. If you buy seedlings from a nursery, acclimate them to outdoor conditions over a few days.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can have a productive winter garden that provides fresh vegetables through the holidays and into early spring.
Pest And Disease Management In Winter
Winter gardens have fewer pests, but some problems still occur. Here is what to watch for.
- Aphids: These small insects cluster on new growth. Spray them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and snails: They are active in damp weather. Hand-pick them at night or use iron phosphate bait.
- Cabbage worms: These green caterpillars eat brassica leaves. Use row covers or apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
- Fungal diseases: Cool, wet weather can cause powdery mildew and downy mildew. Space plants for air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Rotate your crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases. Do not plant the same family in the same spot two years in a row.
Harvesting Your December-Planted Vegetables
Harvesting times vary by vegetable. Here is a general guide to know when your crops are ready.
- Leafy greens: Harvest outer leaves when they are 4 to 6 inches long. Leave the inner leaves to keep growing.
- Root vegetables: Pull them when they reach the size shown on the seed packet. Carrots and beets can be left in the ground until you need them.
- Brassicas: Harvest cabbage heads when they are firm. Cut broccoli heads before the flowers open. Pick cauliflower when the curd is tight.
- Peas: Pick snow peas when the pods are flat. Harvest English peas when the pods are plump but still bright green.
Most vegetables taste best when harvested in the morning. Wash them gently and store them in the refrigerator. Use leafy greens within a few days for the best flavor.
Extending Your Harvest Into January And February
With proper planning, you can harvest vegetables well into the new year. Here are some tips.
- Plant successive crops. Sow a new batch of radishes or lettuce every two weeks for a continuous supply.
- Use cold frames or low tunnels. These structures extend the growing season by several weeks.
- Choose cold-hardy varieties. Look for labels that say “winter” or “cold-tolerant.”
- Mulch heavily around root vegetables. This prevents the soil from freezing and allows you to harvest as needed.
Louisiana’s winter is short compared to northern states. With a little effort, you can enjoy fresh vegetables from your garden all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetables can I plant in December in Louisiana?
You can plant leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. Root vegetables such as carrots, radishes, beets, and turnips also do well. Brassicas like cabbage, broccoli, and collards are excellent choices. Peas, fava beans, and garlic are also suitable for December planting.
Is it too late to plant a winter garden in Louisiana in December?
No, it is not too late. December is a good time to plant vegetables that mature in 30 to 60 days. Focus on cold-hardy varieties and use frost protection if needed. Southern Louisiana has a longer growing window than northern parts of the state.
Do I need to protect my December-planted vegetables from frost?
Yes, some protection is wise. Use row covers, mulch, or cold frames to shield plants from hard freezes. Most leafy greens and brassicas can handle light frost, but prolonged cold can damage them. Check your local weather forecast and cover plants when temperatures drop below 28°F.
Can I plant tomatoes or peppers in December in Louisiana?
No, tomatoes and peppers are warm-season crops. They cannot survive frost and need warm soil to grow. Wait until March or April to plant them. Stick with cold-hardy vegetables for your December garden.
How often should I water my December garden in Louisiana?
Water less often than in summer. Check the soil moisture by feeling the top inch. If it is dry, water deeply. In cool, damp weather, you may only need to water once a week. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
December gardening in Louisiana is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh produce during the winter months. By choosing the right vegetables and providing basic care, you can have a productive garden that lasts through the season. Start with the vegetables listed here, and you will be harvesting your own greens, roots, and brassicas in no time.