California’s December gardens thrive with flowers that make the most of the state’s Mediterranean winter climate. If you’re searching for the best flowers to plant in december in california, you’ve come to the right place. This guide walks you through top picks, planting tips, and care routines for a vibrant winter garden.
December in California isn’t like most places. While other states freeze, your garden can still bloom. The key is choosing flowers that love cool, wet winters and mild temperatures. Let’s get started.
Best Flowers To Plant In December In California
Here are the top flowers that thrive when planted in December across California’s diverse climates. Each one brings color and life to your garden during the cooler months.
Pansies
Pansies are winter champions. They handle frost well and bloom continuously from December through spring. Plant them in full sun to partial shade. They need well-draining soil and regular watering.
- Colors: Purple, yellow, white, orange
- Height: 6-9 inches
- Spacing: 6-8 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to May
Snapdragons
Snapdragons add vertical interest to winter beds. They tolerate cool temperatures and bloom in spikes of pink, red, yellow, and white. Plant them in rich, well-drained soil. They need full sun for best results.
- Colors: Pink, red, yellow, white
- Height: 12-36 inches (depending on variety)
- Spacing: 8-12 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to June
Calendula
Calendula, or pot marigold, is a hardy annual that loves cool weather. Its bright orange and yellow flowers brighten any garden. It also attracts beneficial insects. Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Colors: Orange, yellow
- Height: 12-24 inches
- Spacing: 10-12 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to May
Sweet Alyssum
Sweet alyssum forms low, carpet-like mounds of tiny white, pink, or purple flowers. It has a honey-like scent. It thrives in cool weather and is perfect for borders or containers. Plant in full sun to light shade.
- Colors: White, pink, purple
- Height: 4-6 inches
- Spacing: 6-8 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to May
Stock
Stock is prized for its spicy, clove-like fragrance and tall flower spikes. It blooms in shades of pink, white, purple, and red. It prefers cool temperatures and full sun. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil.
- Colors: Pink, white, purple, red
- Height: 12-30 inches
- Spacing: 8-10 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to April
Primrose
Primroses offer early winter color with their bright, cheerful blooms. They come in many colors, including yellow, pink, red, and blue. They prefer partial shade and moist, rich soil. They are perfect for woodland gardens.
- Colors: Yellow, pink, red, blue
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spacing: 8-10 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to March
Cyclamen
Cyclamen are excellent for shaded areas. Their delicate, butterfly-like flowers appear in pink, white, red, or purple. They bloom through winter and go dormant in summer. Plant in well-drained soil with organic matter.
- Colors: Pink, white, red, purple
- Height: 6-10 inches
- Spacing: 8-12 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to March
Violas
Violas are smaller relatives of pansies. They produce masses of tiny flowers in cool weather. They are incredibly hardy and bloom from December through spring. Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Colors: Purple, yellow, white, blue
- Height: 4-8 inches
- Spacing: 4-6 inches apart
- Bloom time: December to May
Why December Planting Works In California
California’s winter climate is unique. Most of the state gets cool, rainy winters with mild temperatures. This is perfect for cool-season flowers. The soil is moist from rain, which helps new plants establish roots.
December planting gives flowers a head start. They develop strong root systems during winter. When spring arrives, they bloom earlier and more vigorously. This is a smart gardening strategy.
Regional Considerations
California has several climate zones. What works in coastal areas may not work inland. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Coastal areas (San Francisco, Los Angeles): Mild winters, rarely freezing. All listed flowers thrive.
- Inland valleys (Sacramento, San Jose): Cooler nights, occasional frost. Pansies, violas, and snapdragons are best.
- Desert areas (Palm Springs, Death Valley): Warm days, cool nights. Calendula and stock do well.
- Mountain areas (Lake Tahoe, Big Bear): Cold, snowy. Stick to pansies and violas in protected spots.
How To Plant Flowers In December
Follow these steps for success. The process is simple but requires attention to detail.
- Prepare the soil: Remove weeds and rocks. Mix in 2-3 inches of compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and nutrients.
- Check drainage: Dig a small hole and fill with water. If it drains within 30 minutes, the soil is good. If not, add more compost.
- Plant at the right depth: Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Space properly: Follow spacing guidelines for each flower. Overcrowding leads to disease and poor growth.
- Water thoroughly: After planting, water deeply. This settles the soil around roots. Then water as needed based on rainfall.
- Add mulch: Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch (bark, straw, or leaves). This keeps soil moist and moderates temperature.
- Fertilize lightly: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leaves over flowers.
Watering Tips For December
December is often rainy in California. But you still need to water new plants. Check soil moisture weekly. Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, water deeply. If it’s moist, wait.
Overwatering is a common mistake. Soggy soil causes root rot. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. This is especially important in clay soils.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced gardeners make errors. Here are pitfalls to skip:
- Planting too late: December is ideal, but don’t wait until late January. Roots need time to establish before spring growth.
- Ignoring frost: In inland areas, frost can damage tender flowers. Cover plants with frost cloth on cold nights.
- Skipping soil prep: Poor soil leads to weak plants. Always amend with compost before planting.
- Overcrowding: Follow spacing guidelines. Crowded plants compete for light and nutrients.
- Forgetting to deadhead: Remove spent flowers regularly. This encourages more blooms and keeps plants tidy.
Companion Planting Ideas
Pair your winter flowers with other cool-season plants for a fuller garden. Here are some combinations:
- Pansies + kale: The colorful leaves of ornamental kale complement pansy blooms.
- Snapdragons + dusty miller: Silver foliage of dusty miller contrasts with snapdragon spikes.
- Calendula + lettuce: Edible greens and bright flowers create a productive bed.
- Sweet alyssum + violas: Low-growing alyssum carpets the ground around violas.
Caring For Your Winter Flowers
Maintenance is minimal but important. Here’s what to do:
Fertilizing
Feed your flowers every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute to half strength. Stop fertilizing if temperatures drop below freezing. Resume when weather warms.
Deadheading
Remove faded flowers regularly. Use clean scissors or pinch with fingers. This directs energy to new blooms instead of seed production. Do this weekly for best results.
Pest Control
Winter pests are less common but can appear. Watch for aphids, slugs, and snails. Use insecticidal soap for aphids. Handpick slugs and snails at night. Keep the garden clean of debris.
Mulching
Refresh mulch as needed. It breaks down over time. A 2-inch layer is ideal. Mulch also prevents soil from splashing onto leaves, which reduces disease.
Benefits Of December Planting
Planting in December offers several advantages:
- Less watering: Winter rains reduce your workload.
- Cooler temperatures: Plants experience less transplant shock.
- Earlier blooms: Flowers appear weeks before spring-planted ones.
- Stronger roots: Cool weather encourages deep root growth.
- Fewer pests: Many garden pests are inactive in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant flowers in December in Southern California?
Yes. Southern California’s mild winters are perfect for planting. All the flowers listed here thrive in zones 9-11. Just water less if you get winter rain.
What flowers bloom in December in California?
Pansies, violas, snapdragons, calendula, sweet alyssum, stock, primrose, and cyclamen all bloom in December. They continue flowering through spring with proper care.
Is it too late to plant flowers in December?
No, December is an ideal time. The soil is still warm enough for root growth. Plants establish well before the coldest part of winter. Just avoid planting during heavy rain or frost.
Do I need to protect December-planted flowers from frost?
In inland and mountain areas, yes. Cover plants with frost cloth or old sheets on nights when temperatures drop below 32°F. Remove covers during the day. Coastal areas rarely need protection.
Can I plant seeds in December instead of seedlings?
Yes, but it’s slower. Direct-sow seeds of calendula, sweet alyssum, and violas. They will germinate in 10-14 days. Seedlings give faster results for beginners.
Final Tips For Success
Start small if you’re new to winter gardening. Choose 2-3 flower varieties that appeal to you. Prepare the soil well and water consistently. Watch your garden transform into a colorful winter oasis.
Remember that California’s climate is a gift for gardeners. Take advantage of it. Your December-planted flowers will reward you with months of beauty. Enjoy the process and the blooms.
For the best results, visit your local nursery. They carry varieties suited to your specific area. Ask about native plants too. They often require less water and care.
With these tips, you can create a stunning winter garden. The best flowers to plant in december in california are waiting for you. Get started today and enjoy a vibrant winter landscape.