December Seed Ordering: Plan Your Garden Before Winter Ends

Why Order Seeds in December?

While snow might be falling outside, December is actually one of the most productive months for gardeners. Ordering seeds now gives you first pick of varieties before popular options sell out in February and March. Seed companies stock their warehouses in late fall, meaning December shoppers get the freshest seeds with the highest germination rates.

Ordering early also gives you time to plan your garden layout, calculate quantities, and spread out expenses before the spring rush hits your budget.

Inventory Your Current Seed Collection

Before placing orders, assess what you already have on hand. Most vegetable seeds remain viable for 2-5 years when stored properly in cool, dry conditions.

Check Germination Rates

Test older seeds by placing 10 seeds between damp paper towels in a sealed plastic bag. Keep them at room temperature for 7-10 days. If fewer than 5 seeds sprout, it's time to reorder that variety.

Organize by Expiration Date

Sort seeds into three categories:

• Plant this year: Seeds from last season or those nearing their expiration
• Good for 1-2 more years: Recently purchased seeds stored properly
• Compost pile: Seeds older than their viable years or failed germination tests

Write the purchase year on each packet if you haven't already. This simple habit saves money and prevents disappointment during planting season.

Choose Varieties for Your Growing Zone

December gives you time to research which varieties thrive in your specific climate and growing conditions.

Consider Your Last Frost Date

Your USDA hardiness zone determines which plants survive winter, but your last spring frost date controls when you can start planting. Most seed packets list "days to maturity," which helps you work backward from your first expected fall frost.

For example, if your last spring frost is May 15 and a tomato variety needs 80 days to maturity, you'll know whether you need to start seeds indoors or can direct sow.

Match Seeds to Your Space

Beginner gardeners often overbuy. A standard seed packet contains 25-50 seeds for most vegetables. One packet of zucchini can produce enough squash for your entire neighborhood, while you might need 3-4 packets of lettuce for continuous harvests.

Plan your garden on paper first:

• Measure your growing space in square feet
• Sketch where each crop will go
• Calculate how many plants fit based on spacing requirements
• Order only what you need, plus 20% extra for insurance

Select Disease-Resistant Varieties

Seed catalogs note disease resistance with abbreviations like VFN (Verticillium wilt, Fusarium wilt, Nematodes). These varieties cost the same as standard seeds but save you from crop losses later. Particularly important for tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash.

Create a Seed Ordering Strategy

Start with Staple Crops

Order these reliable, beginner-friendly vegetables first:

• Tomatoes (2-3 varieties for different uses)
• Lettuce and salad greens
• Bush beans
• Zucchini or summer squash
• Radishes
• Herbs like basil and cilantro

Add One or Two Experimental Crops

Try something new each year, but don't gamble your whole garden on unfamiliar plants. Choose one vegetable you've never grown and one unusual variety of a familiar crop.

Compare Seed Sources

December gives you time to compare prices and quality across multiple suppliers. Check CuzHens Market for local seed sellers in your area who offer varieties specifically adapted to your region's microclimate. Local seeds often outperform mass-market varieties because they're selected for your exact conditions.

Look for:

• Germination rate guarantees (usually 80% or higher)
• Organic or untreated options if that matters to you
• Clear variety descriptions with days-to-maturity information
• Reasonable packet sizes for home gardeners

Set Up Your Seed Starting Calendar

Once seeds arrive, create a planting timeline working backward from your last frost date.

Indoor Seed Starting Schedule

Most vegetables need starting indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost:

• Tomatoes and peppers: 6-8 weeks before last frost
• Brassicas (broccoli, cabbage): 4-6 weeks before last frost
• Cucumbers and squash: 2-3 weeks before last frost

Direct Sowing Schedule

Some crops perform better when planted directly in the garden:

• Cool-season crops (peas, lettuce, spinach): 4-6 weeks before last frost
• Warm-season crops (beans, corn): 1-2 weeks after last frost
• Root vegetables (carrots, beets): As soon as soil can be worked

Write these dates on your calendar now while you have time to plan.

Common Questions About December Seed Ordering

How long do seeds stay good? Most vegetable seeds last 2-3 years when stored in a cool, dry place. Onions and parsnips lose viability after one year, while tomatoes and brassicas can last 4-5 years.

Should I buy organic seeds? Organic seeds come from organically managed farms but grow the same as conventional seeds. Buy organic if you're pursuing organic certification for your farm or garden, or if supporting organic agriculture matters to you.

How much should I budget for seeds? Beginners can start a productive 100-square-foot garden with $30-50 in seeds. A quarter-acre market garden might require $200-400 in seed costs.

What if seeds sell out before I order? Popular heirloom varieties and new releases sell out by February. If you miss out, check multiple suppliers or choose similar varieties with comparable characteristics.

Can I save money buying in bulk? Only if you're planting large quantities. Most seed packets contain enough for home gardens. Bulk seeds make sense for market farmers or when splitting orders with neighbors.