Winter might have you dreaming of snowflakes and hot cocoa, but for gardeners, December is the perfect time to plan for the growing season ahead. While most people are focused on holiday shopping and end-of-year celebrations, savvy green thumbs are already clicking “add to cart” on seed packets that will set them up for a spectacular spring and summer harvest. Ordering seeds in December gives you a jumpstart on germination timelines, ensures you snag the rare varieties before they sell out, and lets your garden planning simmer while others are just thinking about what to put on the table.
The smartest gardeners know that a little foresight now can lead to a flourishing garden later. Here are ten seed orders that are flying off the virtual shelves this month, and why you should consider them for your own garden.
1. Heirloom Tomato Seeds
Heirloom tomatoes are the crown jewels of any garden, and December is a strategic time to lock in your favorite varieties. Ordering now guarantees access to rare colors, flavors, and shapes that might vanish if you wait until spring. These seeds give you plenty of lead time to start indoors under grow lights before the last frost. Heirloom tomatoes also reward patience with incredible flavor that supermarket varieties just can’t match. Smart gardeners love that these seeds allow for experimentation with different textures, colors, and culinary possibilities.
2. Early Spring Lettuce Mixes
Leafy greens like lettuce grow best when they’re not battling the heat of summer. December seed orders for early spring lettuce mixes ensure you’ll have a fresh supply of tender greens as soon as the frost thaws. Starting these seeds indoors gives you a head start and protects young plants from late-season chills. These mixes often include varieties with unique colors and flavors, adding visual and culinary excitement to your salads. Gardeners ordering now are ready to transplant seedlings as soon as the soil is workable.
3. Aromatic Herb Seeds
Basil, cilantro, thyme, and dill are staples in any kitchen garden, and ordering herb seeds in December ensures they’re ready for early sowing indoors. Many herbs take time to germinate and establish strong roots before transplanting, so planning ahead is essential. Starting indoors also allows for controlled conditions, producing healthier and more vigorous seedlings. Fresh herbs enhance everything from winter soups to spring sauces, making them a smart and practical choice. Savvy gardeners know that herbs grown from seed are more flavorful and resilient than store-bought starters.
4. Heirloom Carrot Varieties
Carrots may be humble, but heirloom varieties bring a pop of color and flavor that brightens any garden bed or plate. Ordering now gives you the chance to secure unique types like purple, white, or rainbow carrots. Carrots benefit from early planning since their slow germination requires patient care and consistent soil conditions. Starting seeds indoors or using a controlled environment setup can result in straighter, sweeter roots. Gardeners who plan ahead now will be digging into vibrant carrot harvests come spring and summer.
5. Sweet Pepper Seeds
Sweet peppers are a garden favorite, but they require warm soil and steady care to flourish. Ordering seeds in December allows for early indoor germination, giving plants a strong head start before transplanting. These seeds also offer access to exotic varieties that can be tricky to find later in the season. Starting early helps prevent the frustration of delayed harvests and gives you more time to nurture strong, productive plants. Gardeners who place their orders now are the ones enjoying colorful bell peppers in salads and stir-fries long before neighbors even see blooms.
6. Cucurbit Seeds
Cucumbers, zucchinis, and squash fall under the cucurbit family, and December seed orders give gardeners a significant advantage. These fast-growing plants thrive with early indoor starts or pre-sprouting in trays before moving outdoors. Many gardeners wait too long to buy these seeds, resulting in missed opportunities or subpar plants. Early planning ensures robust seedlings ready to climb trellises or spread across beds once the weather warms. Smart gardeners are already envisioning abundant summer harvests filled with fresh, crunchy cucumbers and tender zucchinis.
7. Winter Flower Seeds
Flowers may not feed your body, but they feed your soul, and December is the perfect time to plan for vibrant blooms in spring and early summer. Pansies, calendulas, and poppies are among the favorites to start now for a cheerful garden explosion. Early ordering guarantees access to limited or heirloom flower varieties that often sell out quickly. Starting seeds indoors allows control over temperature and light, resulting in healthier, more vigorous plants. Gardeners who plan ahead now can enjoy a continuous wave of color while others are scrambling for last-minute plant starts.
8. Brassica Family Seeds
Broccoli, kale, and cabbage are staples of winter gardens, but they require strategic planning for optimal harvest. Ordering seeds in December allows gardeners to start indoors or in controlled environments for early spring transplanting. These crops are notorious for slow early growth, so early attention translates directly to a longer and more productive season. The Brassica family also offers nutritional powerhouses that make home cooking and meal prep more exciting. Smart gardeners know that early orders lead to robust, healthy plants that withstand pests and temperature swings.
9. Perennial Herb Seeds
While annual herbs like basil are great, perennial herbs like rosemary, sage, and oregano bring long-term rewards. Ordering seeds in December gives gardeners a head start on plants that will last for years. Starting these seeds indoors allows time for strong root systems to develop before facing outdoor conditions. These herbs not only enhance meals year-round but also act as companion plants to improve garden biodiversity. Forward-thinking gardeners take advantage of this time to secure perennials that will elevate their garden for seasons to come.
10. Microgreens And Sprouts
Microgreens are a fast-growing, nutrient-packed crop that’s perfect for indoor gardening during winter months. Ordering seeds now ensures you can start growing in trays or small containers immediately, even if outdoor conditions are still frosty. Microgreens germinate quickly and provide a constant supply of fresh, vibrant greens for salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. The ease of growing these tiny powerhouses makes them a favorite for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Savvy gardeners know that early planning for microgreens can turn a dreary winter into a season of fresh, green abundance.
Get Ahead For A Rewarding Garden
Ordering seeds in December isn’t just about being organized—it’s about giving your garden the best chance to thrive. From vibrant heirloom tomatoes to nutrient-packed microgreens, each seed you select now sets the stage for months of harvest and beauty. Gardeners who plan early enjoy healthier plants, more abundant yields, and the satisfaction of watching their efforts pay off. Have you started your December seed orders yet? Share your thoughts, experiences, or favorite seeds in the comments section below—we’d love to hear your stories!
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The post 10 December Seed Orders That Smart Gardeners Are Placing Right Now appeared first on Frugal Gardening.
