29 Winter Garden Activities to Keep You Inspired All Season Long

As the weather turns colder and the garden settles into its winter sleep, it might feel like gardening has come to a halt. But if you’re like me and can’t stop thinking about plants, don’t worry—there’s plenty to do!
Winter Gardening Activities are the perfect way to stay connected to your green thumb and tackle projects that get pushed aside during the busy growing season. From planning your dream winter vegetable garden garden to trying creative indoor projects, there are so many ways to stay connected to the garden, even in winter.
I personally love this slower season. It’s a chance to reflect, dream, and catch up on the tasks I didn’t get to during the chaos of summer. Plus, it’s fun to experiment with new winter garden ideas indoors while I count down the days to spring.
If you’re itching to keep gardening this winter, here are 29 cold weather gardening activities to inspire you and help you prepare for your best garden season yet! These are great garden activities for December or garden activities for January, February and beyond!
Let’s dive in!
Reflect on Last Season’s Wins and Lessons

Every great garden starts with a little reflection. Take some time to think about what went well and what didn’t last season. Did your home vegetable garden thrive while your cut flower garden struggled? Or maybe your spring flowers were stunning, but your summer beds fizzled out. Jot down these observations in a garden journal or notebook.
Pro Tip: Turn your notes into actionable lessons for next year. For example:
• “Lettuce thrived in the east bed. Plant more there next year!”
• “I didn’t mulch enough—make sure to double up!”
By reflecting now, you’ll make smarter decisions when planning your next garden.
Create New Year’s Resolutions for Your Garden

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set gardening resolutions! Whether you want to try a new skill, grow something unique, or add a new garden bed, creating specific, actionable goals can make your gardening year more rewarding.
Reflect and Plan:
Think back on last year’s garden. What worked well? What could be improved? Use those reflections to create meaningful resolutions. For example, if pests were a problem, you might resolve to research organic pest control methods.
Ideas for Gardening Resolutions:
- Grow Something New: Challenge yourself to grow a vegetable, fruit, or flower you’ve never tried before.
- Start Composting: Commit to reducing waste and enriching your soil with a composting system.
- Plant for Pollinators: Add more native plants or flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Stay Organized: Use a garden planner to track planting dates, harvests, and seasonal tasks.
- Improve Your Soil: Healthy plants start with healthy soil, and every little improvement helps!
Make It Fun:
Resolutions don’t have to be overly ambitious. Start small with goals that excite and motivate you. You’ll find it much easier to stick to your resolutions when they’re tied to your gardening passion.
Setting New Year’s resolutions as a gardener is a wonderful way to focus your energy, grow your skills, and look forward to another beautiful year in the garden.

Dream and Plan Next Year’s Garden
Winter is the season for big dreams! And this winter garden activity goes hand in hand with New Year’s gardening goals. Grab some graph paper (included in my FREE garden journal, available HERE) and start mapping out your ideal garden. Maybe it’s a new vegetable layout or adding a flower bed you’ve been wanting for years. Browse seed catalogs for inspiration, and start making those plans!
Ask yourself:
• What new plants or vegetables do I want to try?
• Are there areas I want to redesign?
• What will make gardening easier or more productive this year?
Planning now will make the upcoming season even more exciting, and maybe even inspire you to keep the season going in fall with a fall or winter vegetable garden!
Organize Your Seed Collection
Garden winter prep is the perfect time to get your seed collection in order, and it’s a perfect task to add to your list of snowy day gardening activities!
If you’re anything like me, your seeds might be scattered across drawers, boxes, or even random corners of the house. Taking time to organize them now will save you so much frustration when planting season arrives.
To help with seed organization, I have an article with 21 seed storage and organization ideas to get you started!
An organized seed collection means less stress and more time to focus on the joy of gardening when spring finally arrives. It also makes it easier to see what seeds you have on hand, and which seeds need to be purchased for the upcoming season. This is always one winter garden idea I keep at the top of the list!
Order New Seeds
If garden planning is the dreaming phase, ordering seeds is when the excitement really kicks in! There’s something magical about flipping through seed catalogs or browsing online stores, imagining all the beautiful plants you’ll grow.
Start by reviewing your garden plan and making a list of the seeds you’ll need. It’s a good idea to check what you already have on hand—those leftover packets from last year might still be good! If you’re not sure, do a quick germination test to see if the seeds are viable. (check out my article on how to test the germination of seeds HERE)
When ordering, focus on your must-haves first: the vegetables, herbs, and flowers you know you love. Then, if your budget allows, add in a few “just for fun” varieties. Maybe a striking heirloom tomato you’ve always wanted to try or a colorful flower to brighten up your garden. Maybe even grab a seed packet or two to try an indoor winter garden!
Look for seeds suited to your growing zone, and don’t forget to consider disease-resistant varieties if pests or plant diseases gave you trouble last year. Shopping early is key—popular seeds sell out quickly!
I highly recommend these seed companies:
- Johnny’s Seed Company
- Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
- Botanical Interests (bonus – Botanical Interests seeds are often found at local gardening centers!)
Start Seeds Indoors
Can’t wait until spring to get your hands in the dirt? Starting seeds indoors is the perfect way to beat the garden winter blues!! Cool-season crops like lettuce, kale, and spinach are perfect for this, and you can even grow flowers like snapdragons and pansies.
Invest in good seed-starting supplies like trays, quality potting mix, and a grow light. If you’re new to seed starting, keep it simple—just grow a few trays of your favorites. (Need help? Check out my seed-starting guide here!)
Grow Herbs Indoors
Who says fresh herbs are just for summer? Growing herbs indoors is a simple and rewarding way to keep your gardening spirit alive through the winter.
Not only will your indoor herb garden brighten up your kitchen, but it will also save you money and add amazing fresh flavor to your meals. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than snipping a sprig of parsley or a handful of basil straight from your windowsill.

Pamper Your Houseplants
Houseplants deserve a little TLC too! Winter can be tough on them with dry air and less sunlight, so start by dusting their leaves to help them absorb more light. Check for pests (like spider mites), and boost humidity by grouping plants together or using a humidifier.
A little extra care goes a long way to keep your houseplants thriving all winter.
Propagate Houseplants
Winter is the perfect time to experiment with propagating houseplants as a fun winter garden idea. Not only is it a cost effective way to add to your indoor plant collection, but it’s also a rewarding way to learn more about plant growth and care.
Once your plants develop strong roots, pot them up and find a good spot where they’ll thrive in your home. They also make great gifts for friends and family members!
Make Homemade Bird Feeders

Winter can be tough on wildlife, and creating homemade birdfeeders is a fun, easy way to support your feathered friends. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring life and activity to your garden during the quieter months, and a great winter outdoor activity for kids.
You can get creative with materials you already have at home. A simple pinecone birdfeeder is a classic option—just spread peanut butter over the pinecone, roll it in birdseed, and hang it from a tree with some string. You can also recycle household items like empty toilet paper rolls, milk cartons, or mason jars to craft unique feeders.
Be sure to place your feeders in spots where birds feel safe, away from high-traffic areas or predators. Keep them stocked with a variety of seeds to attract different species—black oil sunflower seeds and millet are popular choices.
Watching birds at a feeder is a fun way to stay connected to nature during the winter months.
Start A Worm Bin
Winter is the perfect time to start a worm bin and jump into composting indoors. It’s an easy, low-maintenance way to recycle kitchen scraps and create nutrient-rich worm castings (a.k.a. black gold) for your garden. Plus, it’s a fun project that keeps you connected to your gardening year-round! Winter gardening activities like these are great for keeping you connected to the garden while you wait for the warm days of spring to arrive.
To get started, check out this simple tutorial on creating a worm bin from Cornell University.
Starting a worm bin is a great way to reduce waste, improve your soil, and keep your gardening spirit alive, even when it’s freezing outside.
Expand Your Gardening Knowledge
Winter is a great time to dive into gardening topics you’ve always been curious about. Grab a great book, watch a webinar, or take a virtual gardening class. Want to learn how to start seeds indoors? Curious about organic pest control? Now’s the time to become an expert!
For even more inspiration and education, join my free Facebook group, where gardeners just like you share tips, ask questions, and swap ideas. It’s such a fun gardening community, and I’d love to see you there!
Grow Microgreens

If you’ve never grown microgreens, you’re missing out! These nutrient-packed greens are quick, easy, and ready to harvest in just 7-10 days. All you need is a shallow tray, potting soil, and seeds like broccoli, radish, or pea shoots. Place the tray in a sunny spot or under a grow light, and in no time, you’ll have fresh greens for salads or sandwiches.
Microgreens are the perfect project for those long winter days when you’re itching to grow something. (Find my full tutorial to grow microgreens indoors here!)
Try Winter Sowing

Winter sowing is one of my favorite seed-starting methods. Using recycled containers like milk jugs or salad boxes, you can create mini-greenhouses that sit outside all winter. It’s perfect for cold-hardy plants, and the best part? Nature takes care of the timing!
Winter sowing is a great task to add to your cold weather garden chores! When spring arrives, you’ll have strong seedlings ready to transplant.
You can find my step-by-step guide to winter sowing here!
Create a Terrarium
Bring a touch of greenery indoors with a DIY terrarium. These miniature gardens are low-maintenance and add a beautiful, personal touch to your home. Use a glass container, small plants like mosses or succulents, and layers of soil, rocks, and charcoal for drainage. Add decorative touches like pebbles or figurines to make it unique.
Prune Trees and Shrubs
Winter is the ideal time to prune. With plants dormant, it’s easier to see their structure and remove dead or crossing branches. If you have fruit trees, pruning now will boost fruit production and improve sunlight exposure. A good pair of pruners is all you need to give your trees and shrubs a healthy start to spring.
Start a Compost Pile
Winter might seem like an odd time to start a compost pile, but it’s actually the perfect season to get a head start on creating nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Even though the decomposition process slows down in colder weather, it doesn’t stop completely, and by spring, you’ll have a great foundation ready to use.
Starting a compost pile now means you’ll have a head start on creating that rich, crumbly compost your garden will love come spring.
Build Healthy Soil
Your garden may be resting, but your soil doesn’t have to! Add kitchen scraps to your compost pile, shred fallen leaves for mulch, or spread aged compost over your beds. If you haven’t tested your soil yet, winter is a great time to do so. Knowing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels will set the foundation for a thriving garden.
Grow Spinach or Lettuce Indoors
Miss fresh greens? Grow spinach or lettuce indoors! All you need is a sunny windowsill or grow light, a container, and potting soil. Sprinkle seeds, keep the soil moist, and enjoy fresh salads in just a few weeks.
You can find my tutorial on growing spinach indoors here.
Organize a Seed Swap
Winter is the perfect time to organize a seed swap and connect with fellow gardeners in your community. Not only is it a fun way to exchange seeds, but it’s also a great opportunity to discover unique varieties, share gardening stories, and get inspired for the upcoming season.
Start by inviting friends, neighbors, or members of your gardening group. You can host the swap in person at a local library, community center, or even your own home. If an in-person gathering isn’t an option, consider organizing a virtual seed swap where participants mail seeds to one another.
Paint Terra Cotta Pots
Winter is the perfect time to get creative and give your plain terra-cotta pots a colorful makeover. Not only does painting pots add a personal touch to your garden or home, but it’s also a fun indoor project that’s easy to do with the whole family.
Your freshly painted pots can be used to showcase houseplants, start seeds, or add a pop of color to your patio or garden come spring. Plus, each painted pot is a reflection of your creativity and one more way your garden is uniquely you!
Whitewash Terra Cotta Pots

If you’re looking for an easy way to add a touch of rustic elegance to your garden décor, whitewashing terra-cotta pots is a quick and satisfying project. This technique gives your pots a weathered, vintage look that’s perfect for showcasing both indoor and outdoor plants.
To learn how to whitewash your terra-cotta pots step-by-step, check out my detailed blog post on whitewashing terra-cotta pots. I walk you through everything from preparing your pots to mixing the perfect whitewash solution and achieving the look you want.
Once your whitewashed pots are ready, they make a beautiful addition to any space. Use them for growing herbs on your windowsill, display them on a shelf, or mix them with painted pots for a charming, layered aesthetic.
You can find the full tutorial on how to whitewash terra cotta HERE.
Buy More Plants!

Winter can feel long and dreary, but a trip to a local garden center is the perfect remedy! Garden centers typically increase their collections of houseplants during the winter, and there are several that would love to come home with you
Take your time browsing and choose plants that suit your space and light conditions. If you’re unsure about care requirements, the garden center staff are usually happy to help and pretty knowledgeable about plant care.
Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Help wildlife this winter by leaving seed heads on plants, adding bird feeders, or creating a brush pile for small animals. Even small actions can make a big difference for local birds, pollinators, and critters.
Clean Your Garden Tools
Winter is the perfect time to give your gardening tools some much-needed attention. After a busy season, tools often get neglected, but a little TLC now can extend their lifespan and ensure they’re ready to go when spring arrives.
It’s also a good time to organize your tools and replace any broken or missing ones.
Taking the time to care for your tools now means less stress and and an easier spring. If you’re like me, you’ll be itching to get into the garden once the weather warms up, and you’ll be grateful you took a little time now to be sure things are organized and ready to go.
Get Creative with Garden Décor
Paint garden signs, make plant markers, or refurbish planters to add personality to your garden. This is a fun activity to do with kids, and when spring arrives, you’ll have everything ready to make your space unique.
Explore Nature for Inspiration
Indoor gardening activities for winter don’t have to be limited to your own home! Visit a botanical garden or conservatory for a dose of greenery and fresh ideas. You might even discover new plants or design elements to try in your garden next season.
Read Gardening Books
Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a good gardening book and expand your knowledge for the upcoming season. Whether you’re looking for practical advice, new techniques, or just some inspiration, a well-chosen gardening book can spark ideas and keep your passion alive during the colder months.
Winter Gardening Doesn’t Have to Wait for Spring
I hope you enjoyed this list of cold weather gardening projects!
Winter is just a different phase of the gardening cycle. By reflecting, planning, and staying creative, you can stay connected to your passion and set the stage for an amazing growing season.
What winter gardening projects are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to join my free Facebook group for more tips, inspiration, and fun giveaways.
Happy growing!

Hi, I’m Liz! I’m a Master Gardener, Garden Coach, and Professional gardener. I’m also a mom of 4 who likes to putz around in my garden, growing food and flowers. You can read more about me here.
I started Learn To Grow Gardens as a resource for anyone looking to find more success in the garden. You can find gardening help, inspiration, and community through my Facebook Group, Instagram page, and by joining my email list below.