What to Plant in December — Zone 5
A versatile zone supporting a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and some fruits with good season extension.
Quick Answer
In zone 5 during December, winter — garden planning for next year, indoor growing, and tool maintenance. Your key tasks this month: plan next year's garden and order seeds, grow microgreens and sprouts on kitchen counter, and enjoy stored garlic, squash, and dried herbs.
December Gardening Tasks for Zone 5
December is winter — garden planning for next year, indoor growing, and tool maintenance. Zone 5 has a frost-free window from May 10 – Oct 1, which shapes what you can plant and when. Here is your complete task list:
Plant Guides for This Month
These plants are mentioned in your December tasks. Read their full growing guides for detailed planting instructions:
Helpful Guides for December
These gardening guides are especially useful this time of year:
- Seed Starting Indoors — essential if you're starting transplants this month
- Companion Planting Guide — plan your layout for maximum yield
- Organic Pest Control — prepare defenses as the season progresses
- Building Better Soil — start any month to improve next season's harvests
- Pest & Disease Library — identify and solve common garden problems organically
- Browse All Plant Guides — detailed growing instructions for every crop
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I plant in December in zone 5?
In zone 5 during December, focus on: Plan next year's garden and order seeds. Grow microgreens and sprouts on kitchen counter. Enjoy stored garlic, squash, and dried herbs. The frost-free period for zone 5 is May 10 – Oct 1.
Is it too late to plant in December in zone 5?
December is a productive month in zone 5. A versatile zone supporting a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and some fruits with good season extension. Check each crop's days to maturity against your remaining frost-free window (May 10 – Oct 1).
What is USDA zone 5?
USDA Zone 5 has a frost-free growing season from approximately May 10 – Oct 1. A versatile zone supporting a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and some fruits with good season extension.