Winter Season
Winter is the coldest season of the year, characterized by significantly lower temperatures compared to other seasons. Its harsh conditions present a biological challenge for living organisms that must adapt to survive its cold weather. Due to these difficult climatic conditions, farming during winter can be demanding yet essential to ensure food production. Farmers constantly seek suitable crops that thrive during this season, including winter vegetables and fruits.
Growing crops in winter enhances soil quality by improving its biological, chemical, and physical properties. It increases organic carbon flow and allows more sunlight to penetrate the soil’s depths.
Plants Grown in Winter
Many crops can be cultivated during winter, as they require minimal space and effort while offering fresh produce and aesthetic garden beauty. Here are some plants suitable for winter cultivation:
1. Garlic
Garlic is planted using bulbs without splitting them. Each bulb is spaced about 10.16 cm apart. Garlic doesn’t require much care or watering initially; rainwater is sufficient until its shoots appear.
2. Leeks
Leeks thrive during mild winter months and can be harvested at any time of the year. They are affordable and easy to grow.
3. Onions
Onions can be planted from seeds or bulbs in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They require moderate watering. The best time for planting onions is January and February, with green onions ready for harvest after about six weeks.
4. Radishes
Radishes, including varieties like white radishes, grow quickly and are easy to cultivate. Some types mature within a month or less after planting.
5. Lettuce
Lettuce is similar to onions, requiring rich soil and regular watering. There are many varieties, some suited for colder months and others for warmer ones. The ideal months for planting lettuce are January and February.
6. Peas
Pea seeds are sown 2.5-5 cm deep in rich soil. Support sticks are placed for the plants to climb. Pea shoots should be protected with a covering that allows sunlight and rain while keeping birds away. November and February are the best months to plant peas.
7. Potatoes
Potatoes are planted in February and harvested after about three months. Planting is done using small tubers or pieces of tubers with at least one eye.
8. Swiss Chard and Other Greens
Swiss chard adds a striking visual to winter gardens with its colorful stems. It grows year-round from seeds. Other greens like spinach are also easy to cultivate and thrive in cool weather with rich soil.
9. Other Winter Crops
Beets, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, herbs, petunias, and perennial plants are also well-suited for winter gardening.
How to Grow Crops in Winter for Spring Harvest
Seeds can be planted in winter to yield a spring harvest using greenhouses made from recycled plastic containers. These containers are placed outdoors in cold and snowy conditions, requiring no indoor space. Seeds germinate as temperatures rise in early spring.
Materials Needed
- Plastic containers (winter sowing containers)
- Potting soil
- Seeds
- Scissors
- Tape
- A metal knife or drill
- Pencil
- Plant labels
Steps for Winter Sowing
- Choose the Container
Select a clear, plastic container with adequate depth and width for plant growth. - Prepare the Container
Clean and modify the container as needed. Cut it to size if necessary, and create drainage holes at the top and bottom using a heated knife or a drill. Remove the lid or create ventilation holes to allow moisture and air circulation. - Fill with Soil
Use fresh, sterilized potting soil and avoid garden soil. - Plant the Seeds
Sow the seeds suitable for winter planting according to their depth requirements. - Label the Container
Write the plant name on the container using tape or labels. - Water the Seeds
Moisten the soil evenly before moving the container outside. Ensure the soil drains excess water to prevent seed drowning. - Seal the Container
Cover the container tightly with tape if needed. - Place Outside
Position the container in a safe location that receives sunlight and rain, away from strong winds, pets, and children. - Monitor in Spring
Leave the container outside throughout winter. When temperatures rise in spring, monitor for sprouts and ensure the soil remains moist. Remove the cover if sprouts touch the lid, providing ventilation.
Note: Winter-planted crops dry out quickly, requiring daily checks and watering if necessary. If nighttime temperatures drop significantly, cover the container with a blanket for added protection.
