In many parts of the world, December is associated with frosty landscapes and dormant gardens. However, for us Floridians, it’s the ideal time to witness an abundance of vegetables flourishing in the garden. Join me on this unexpected December harvest journey as we explore the diverse array of crops thriving in the warm Florida climate.
Unveiling the Uncommon – Summer Squash Harvest in December
In the world of gardening, there are moments that defy the norms, challenging our expectations and delighting us with unexpected surprises. One such surprise came from the flourishing Tromboncino squash in my garden, boldly defying the typical seasonal expectations. We delved into the fascinating journey of cultivating this giant winter squash. We employed strategies to protect it from the elements like the unexpected rain and potential expected frosts
Tomatoes Defying Winter’s Chill
In the warmth of Florida’s December climate, tomato plants displayed remarkable resilience against winter’s chill. Despite wild temperature swings, both in the ground and in containers, tomatoes thrived. We witnessed the astonishing transformation of potted tomato plants that rebounded after a challenging period, bearing fruit in abundance despite the odds.
Perennial Green Onions Multiplying
I discovered the unique characteristics of perennial green onions, as they showcased their ability to multiply and provide a continuous supply of flavorful greens. Learning the art of harvesting and propagating these onions ensured an endless source of culinary delight in my garden.
Broccoli, Cauliflower, and More in the Brassica Bed
We delved into the Brassica bed, where broccoli reigned with its main head and numerous side shoots. Exploring the enchanting purple cauliflowers, we learned about the cut-and-come-again method for maintaining an ongoing harvest of nutritious greens throughout the season.
December Herb Harvest Extravaganza
Embarking on a herb-harvesting adventure, from basil and oregano to parsley and lemon balm, we uncovered the secrets of preserving these aromatic herbs through dehydration and freezing. This ensured a year-round supply for culinary delights and herbal teas.
Lettuce Bounty from the AeroGarden
We experienced the readiness of AeroGarden lettuce for harvest, utilizing the cut-and-come-again method to ensure a continuous supply. Learning the techniques for storing lettuce maintained its crisp texture and flavor for longer durations.
Homemade Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Preserving the December Harvest
We dived into the process of creating homemade sun-dried tomatoes from the cherry tomatoes. Mastering the art of dehydrating, vacuum-sealing, and storing them for extended periods added a flavorful and versatile touch to various culinary creations.
A Florida Winter Harvest Like No Other
In this surprising December garden harvest, we witnessed the resilience of crops in the Florida climate, defying traditional seasonal norms. The warmth of the Sunshine State provided a unique opportunity for year-round gardening adventures, showcasing diverse and bountiful results even in the heart of winter. Stay tuned for more gardening escapades and the joys of growing your own food in the unpredictability of Florida’s weather. Happy gardening!
