What to Plant in December? Soil Care and Fertilization in December

In December, when the winter months are felt, agricultural activities suitable for weather conditions are very important. It is possible to obtain productive harvests by planting suitable products during this period. What can be planted in which regions in December? How can a more productive harvest be obtained?

What to Plant in the Marmara and Black Sea Regions in December?

Vegetables: Vegetables resistant to cold weather conditions such as garlic, onion, lettuce, spinach, cauliflower can be planted.
Care: Greenhouse farming is common in these regions against the danger of frost. Covering the seedlings may be useful.
Fertilization: Soil fertility can be increased by using organic fertilizer or nitrogen-based fertilizers.

What to Plant in the Aegean and Mediterranean Regions in December?

Vegetables: Winter vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, carrots, and peas can be planted. In addition, products such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers can be grown in greenhouses.
Care: Since the temperature is relatively mild, open field planting is possible. It is important to maintain soil moisture.
Fertilization: Fertilizers that are mostly phosphorus and potassium can be used. Fertilization should be done periodically in greenhouses.

What to Plant in Central Anatolia and Eastern Anatolia Regions in December?

Vegetables: Open field planting may be difficult in these regions due to harsh winter conditions. However, greens such as lettuce, cress, and arugula can be grown in greenhouses.
Maintenance: Greenhouses may need to be heated against frost events.
Fertilization: Depending on the mineral deficiency of the soil, nitrogen or phosphorus-containing fertilizers can be added.

What to Plant in Southeastern Anatolia Region in December?

Vegetables: In places with a mild climate, vegetables such as spinach, chard, and onion can be grown.
Maintenance: Light cover can be used against the risk of frost.
Fertilization: Soil analysis should be done and fertilizer should be applied according to the deficient minerals.

General Maintenance and Irrigation Tips in December

Soil Preparation: The soil should be enriched by adding organic matter. Deep plowing can be done in December when the soil is coming to the pan.
Irrigation: Irrigation needs may decrease depending on precipitation, but irrigation should be done regularly in greenhouses.

Frost Protection: Plants should be protected with covers against night frosts or greenhouses should be heated.

Pruning: Pruning of fruit trees can be done during this period. Pruning is especially important for trees such as apple and pear.

It would be useful to get support from local chambers of agriculture or agricultural consultants for planting and maintenance recommendations specific to your region.
‘Irrigation needs in December vary depending on the climate of the region, soil structure and type of plants grown. Irrigation is usually done at a minimum level or stopped completely during this period, but irrigation may be required in greenhouse farming and special plants.

Here are general irrigation recommendations by region:

General Maintenance and Irrigation in Marmara and Black Sea Regions

Climate Characteristics: A rainy and humid climate prevails. Natural precipitation generally meets the irrigation need in winter months.
Irrigation Recommendation:
There is no need for irrigation in open areas.
In greenhouse production, attention should be paid to soil moisture and minimal irrigation should be done with drip irrigation when necessary.
Things to Consider: If the soil remains too moist, it can cause root rot, so drainage should be good.

General Maintenance and Irrigation in the Aegean and Mediterranean Regions

Climate Characteristics: In temperate climates, precipitation increases in winter, but dry days can also be seen.
Irrigation Recommendation:
If precipitation is insufficient in open areas, controlled irrigation can be done once a week.
Irrigation needs may be higher in greenhouses; drip irrigation is recommended twice a week.
Things to Consider: The upper layer of the soil should be checked to prevent plant roots from being damaged by excessive irrigation.

General Maintenance and Irrigation in the Central Anatolia and Eastern Anatolia Regions

Climate Characteristics: Continental climate prevails. Irrigation is generally not done in winter due to frost and snow.
Irrigation Recommendation:
Irrigation is not done in open areas.
Light irrigation can be done once a week in greenhouses.
Things to Consider: Irrigation should be done in the morning or at noon to prevent irrigation water from freezing against the risk of frost.

General Maintenance and Irrigation in the Southeastern Anatolia Region

Climate Characteristics: Rainfall increases in the winter months, but drought may continue in some regions.
Irrigation Recommendations:
If rainfall is insufficient, a small amount of irrigation may be required in open areas.
Irrigation with a drip irrigation system is recommended in greenhouses.
Things to Consider: Soil moisture should be checked regularly. Irrigation should be done on dry days.

General Irrigation Recommendations in December:

Soil Moisture Control: Check the moisture level of the soil before watering. If the soil drips water when squeezed by hand, watering should not be done.
Frost Events: In regions with a risk of frost, watering should be done in the morning hours and evening watering should be avoided.
Greenhouse Irrigation: Using a drip irrigation system in greenhouses allows plants to receive controlled water.

In December, watering needs are generally low. Overwatering can damage plants, so soil moisture and weather conditions should be monitored carefully.