Where Can I Buy Tomato Plants in December?

If you're a gardening enthusiast, you'll know that December isn't exactly the best time of year to be planting anything. The cold weather, shorter days, and unpredictable weather conditions make it difficult to keep plants healthy and thriving. However, there are still ways to get your hands on tomato plants in December.

Online Retailers

One of the easiest ways to find tomato plants in December is to shop online. There are many online retailers that specialize in gardening supplies, and they often offer a wide variety of plants year-round. Some notable online retailers that sell tomato plants include Burpee, Gurney's, and Bonnie Plants.

When shopping for tomato plants online, be sure to take note of shipping times and prices. Depending on where you live, you may need to pay extra for expedited shipping, or you may need to order well in advance to ensure that your plants arrive on time.

Local Nurseries

Another option for finding tomato plants in December is to visit local nurseries. Even though the weather may not be optimal for planting, many nurseries still carry a variety of plants year-round, including tomato plants. You may need to call ahead to see if they have any in stock, but it's worth the effort if you're looking to get a jumpstart on your gardening for the upcoming year.

Visiting a local nursery also gives you the opportunity to speak with knowledgeable staff members who can offer advice on how to care for your tomato plants during the winter months. They may also be able to suggest other plants that are more suitable for the current season.

Seed Catalogs

If you're not in a rush to get your tomato plants, you can also order them through seed catalogs. Many seed companies offer catalogs that you can browse through at your leisure, and place orders for plants that will arrive in the spring. This can be a great way to plan out your garden and ensure that you have everything you need for a successful planting season.

Some popular seed companies that offer tomato plants include Johnny's Selected Seeds, Territorial Seed Company, and Seed Savers Exchange.

Community Gardens

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also check out community gardens in your area. Depending on where you live, there may be community gardens that still have tomato plants growing in December. This can be a great way to connect with other gardening enthusiasts and learn from their experiences.

However, keep in mind that community gardens are often maintained by volunteers and may not have regular hours. You may need to call ahead or email the garden's coordinator to see if they are open and have any tomato plants available.

Conclusion

While it may be challenging to find tomato plants in December, there are still several options available. Whether you choose to shop online, visit a local nursery, order through seed catalogs, or check out community gardens, there are many ways to get started on your gardening for the upcoming year.

Remember to take precautions to ensure that your plants stay healthy during the winter months, and don't be afraid to reach out to gardening experts for advice and guidance. With a little bit of effort and some creativity, you can enjoy fresh, tasty tomatoes from your own garden come springtime.