Ep 169. What’s Actually Worth Planning for the Garden in December (and what can wait)

Seeing people seed starting in December can make it feel like you’re already behind — especially if you live in a colder growing zone. In this episode, we’re talking about what’s actually worth planning for the garden this time of year, what can wait, and how to figure out your real planting timeline based on where you live (not what the internet is doing).

If you’re a new or intermediate gardener — or just need a gentle reminder to slow down — this episode will help you plan with confidence instead of stress.

 

In This Episode, We Talk About:

• Why December gardening content can feel confusing

• The difference between planning season and planting season

• Why seed starting in December isn’t necessary for most cold climates

• How to find your exact garden zone and last frost date

• The seed-starting calculator I personally use every year

• What is worth doing for your garden in December

• How I batch seed-starting dates to make spring easier

• Reflecting on last year’s garden successes and flops

• Choosing garden priorities that actually fit your life

• Why rest is an important part of the growing season

Helpful Garden Planning Links Mentioned:

Find Your Last Frost Date
Use your ZIP code to find your exact last frost date:
https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates

 

Seed Starting Date Calculator (My Favorite)
This is the most robust and easiest-to-use calculator I’ve found:
https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/seed-planting-schedule-calculator.html

 

 

Garden Planner + Seed Organizing Binder Inserts
If you like having everything organized in one place, I have both available in my Etsy shop:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/HomesteadChallenge

Join the Community:

Come share your garden plans (or seed-starting photos!) inside our free Facebook community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity