What to Plant in December (Zones 9 & 10)

December is an ideal time to plant cool-season crops in Zones 9 and 10. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and fewer pests create excellent growing conditions for leafy greens, roots, and brassicas.

With a little preparation, your winter garden can be productive, abundant, and surprisingly low-maintenance.

Tips for Starting Your Winter Garden

  • Prep your soil with compost before planting to give crops a strong nutrient boost.

  • Water consistently, even as temperatures cool. New seedlings still need moisture to establish healthy roots.

  • Mulch well to protect plants from chilly mornings and keep soil moisture steady.

  • Plant from starts (like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower) for faster winter harvests.

  • Succession plant quick growers such as lettuce, radishes, and spinach every 1–2 weeks.

  • Watch for snails and slugs, which thrive in cool, damp conditions—especially around leafy greens.

Cool-Season Crops to Plant in December

These crops grow beautifully during the winter months:

  • Beets

  • Broccoli

  • Brussels sprouts

  • Cabbage

  • Carrots

  • Cauliflower

  • Cilantro

  • Garlic

  • Herbs (chervil, chives, cilantro, parsley, thyme)

  • Kale

  • Lettuce

  • Onions (bulb onions & green onions)

  • Peas (snap & snow)

  • Radishes

  • Spinach

  • Swiss chard

  • Turnips

Winter gardening in warm climates is all about working with the season. Focus on cool-weather crops, protect young plants, and keep planting in small successions for steady harvests all winter long.

growingJenna Viles