Midwest Gardening in December: Tips and Tricks for Cold Weather
December is not typically considered the prime gardening season in the Midwest. With cold temperatures, snow cover, and shorter days, it can be challenging to maintain a garden during this time of year. However, with a little creativity and planning, there are still plenty of ways to keep your green thumb busy throughout the winter months. In this article, we'll take a look at some tips and tricks for midwest gardening in December that are sure to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Preparing Your Garden for Winter
Before we dive into specific tips, it's important to prepare your garden for the harsh winter weather. This means cleaning up any debris, removing dead leaves and flowers, and cutting back any perennials that won't survive the winter. It's also a good idea to mulch around your plants to help insulate their roots from the cold.
Another way to protect your garden is by covering it with a frost blanket or row cover. This will help to retain heat and protect your plants from freezing temperatures. You can even create a mini greenhouse by placing hoops over your beds and covering them with plastic sheeting.
Indoor Gardening
If you're looking to grow plants indoors during the winter months, there are several options available. One popular choice is to set up a hydroponic system, which allows you to grow plants without soil using nutrient-rich water instead. Another option is to create a vertical herb garden using a hanging planter or shelving unit.
For those interested in starting seeds indoors, you'll need a sunny window or grow lights to provide enough light for your plants to thrive. Some easy-to-grow options include lettuce, spinach, and herbs like basil and parsley.
Cold Weather Crops
Believe it or not, there are several vegetables that actually prefer colder temperatures and can withstand frost and snow. Some examples include kale, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts. These hardy crops can be planted in late summer or early fall, and will continue to produce well into the winter months.
If you're looking to add some color to your winter garden, consider planting pansies, which can tolerate freezing temperatures and come in a variety of bright hues. Other cold weather flowers to consider include cyclamen, hellebores, and winter jasmine.
Winter Maintenance
Maintaining your garden during the winter can be just as important as preparing it for the season. Be sure to water your plants regularly, especially if there has been a dry spell. If you have trees or shrubs that are susceptible to damage from heavy snow or ice, gently shake off any excess precipitation to prevent broken branches.
You may also want to consider adding some organic fertilizer to your soil to help nourish your plants during the dormant winter months. Compost, worm castings, and fish emulsion are all great options.
Final Thoughts
Gardening in the Midwest during December can certainly present its challenges, but with a little creativity and effort, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Whether you're growing cold weather crops, tending to indoor plants, or simply maintaining your garden through the winter months, there are plenty of ways to stay active in the garden all year long.
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