15 Essential December Homesteading Tasks – Indoor Herbs, Bird Feeding, And Christmas Goodies!

As winter’s icy fingers grip the December landscape, homesteaders don’t retreat indoors—instead, they spring into action! These December homesteading tasks are the heartbeat of sustainable living, from protecting livestock and building our soil over winter to winterizing infrastructure and planning for spring.

Sound intriguing?

Then, let’s dig in and get to work!

15 Essential November Homesteading Tasks

Let’s dive into several crucial tasks to fortify your homestead against winter’s challenges and set the stage for a thriving new year.

1. Start An Indoor Herb Garden

Starting an indoor herb garden in December provides fresh flavors for winter meals and a reminder of green vitality amidst the cold. It’s a practical way to keep culinary herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary at your fingertips while brightening your home environment.

• Use small pots with good drainage and nutrient-rich potting soil designed for herbs.
• Position your herb garden near a south-facing window or under a grow light for at least 6 hours of light daily.
• Water sparingly to avoid overwatering—most herbs prefer slightly dry soil between watering sessions.

Watching parsley and thyme thrive indoors feels like a personal oasis of growth in the middle of winter’s dormancy, especially when snipping fresh sprigs and transforming simple soups into savory masterpieces.

2. Stock Bird Feeding Stations

Feeding birds in December helps them survive during the harsh winter while bringing lively activity to your yard. A well-stocked bird feeder supports local wildlife and can attract colorful species like goldfinches, chickadees, orioles, cardinals, bluejays, and many more.

• Choose high-energy foods like sunflower seeds, cracked corn, bird suet, and millet.
• Keep feeders clean and filled to avoid food contamination and ensure a steady daily supply.
• Position feeders near shrubs or trees to offer birds shelter from predators.

Hearing the cheerful chatter of chickadees and watching woodpeckers swoop in feels like nature’s gift for your simple act of kindness during the chill of December.

3. Chicken Coop Maintenance

Maintaining your chicken coop in December ensures your flock stays warm, healthy, and productive during the coldest months. Clean bedding and leaky draft repairs help prevent frostbite and respiratory issues while keeping egg production steady.

• Remove old chicken coop bedding and replace it with fresh straw or pine shavings for better insulation.
• Check for drafts and patch holes while maintaining ventilation to reduce moisture buildup.
• Inspect waterers daily to prevent freezing—heated waterers are a worthy investment.

Want to help your winter hens feel comfy? Handfuls of mealworms or cracked corn in the evenings give your chickens a hearty treat, while their freshly cleaned coop provides a cozy refuge from the frost.

Read More – How To Grow Delicious Garden Garlic From Bulb To Harvest!

4. Install Security Features

Burglaries skyrocket during the holidays in America. December’s long nights and holiday travels make it a perfect time to review and enhance homestead security. Installing cameras, motion-sensor lights, or reinforced locks ensures peace of mind and protects your homestead from potential threats. (Homestead dogs also make superb security guards!)

• Place motion-sensor lights near entryways and paths to deter intruders.
• Install security cameras in high-traffic areas or near valuable equipment for monitoring.
• Check your window and door locks to ensure they’re secure, replacing weak ones.

Hearing the reassuring click of a sturdy new lock or catching wildlife on your game camera makes every upgrade worth it—especially during the holiday season when you want to feel safe and snug at home.

5. Double-Check Home Insulation

Proper insulation keeps your homestead warm and energy-efficient during December’s frigid temperatures. Identifying and sealing gaps now reduces heating bills and ensures cozy living spaces for your family and animals.

• Inspect windows and doors for drafts using a candle or smoke stick to detect leaks.
• Use weatherstripping or caulk to close gaps, and add heavy curtains for extra insulation.
• Check attic insulation and consider adding more if it’s compressed or insufficient.

Feeling the warmth stay trapped inside after sealing a drafty window is like reclaiming comfort—and watching those energy savings add up is the cherry on top.

6. Visit A Local Christmas Tree Farm

Don’t forget holiday decor! A trip to your favorite local Christmas tree farm combines festive fun with supporting small businesses. It’s a beautiful way to select the perfect tree for your home while enjoying the crisp winter air and a family outing.

• Bring a measuring tape to ensure the tree fits your space, and check for fresh, green needles.
• Dress warmly with gloves and boots—it’s often muddy and cold at farms in December.
• Call if the farm offers pre-cut options or lets you cut your tree.

There’s nothing quite like the earthy scent of fresh pine filling your home as you string lights and hang ornaments on a tree you hand-picked with loved ones.

Read More – Grow These 14 Dwarf Conifer Trees For Lovely Outdoor Winter Decor!

7. Enjoy Home-Preserved Goods

The colder months offer a lovely opportunity to savor the rewards of your gardening efforts. December is the perfect time to crack open jars of canned peaches, tomato sauces, garden veggies, or jams to bring the taste of summer to your holiday table.

• Rotate older preserves to the front of your pantry for use before their prime expires.
• Pair canned goods with hearty winter meals like stews, casseroles, or holiday baking.
• Check the seals on your mason jars to ensure they’re intact, and discard anything with signs of spoilage.

Spreading homemade blackberry jam over warm toast on a snowy morning is a simple yet profound reminder of the value of preserving life’s seasons.

8. Deep Clean Your Dishwasher

December’s holiday feasts put your dishwasher to work, making it the perfect time for a thorough cleaning. A clean dishwasher runs more efficiently, prevents odors, and extends the life of this essential appliance.

• Remove and scrub the filter to remove grease, food particles, and buildup.
• Run an empty dishwasher cycle with cleaner or vinegar to eliminate odors and limescale.
• Wipe down door seals and spray arms to ensure no hidden grime remains.

It’s deeply satisfying to pull out sparkling clean plates knowing your dishwasher is operating at its best and ready to handle all those holiday dishes.

9. Create DIY Holiday Cards For Friends And Family

Handmade cards bring a heartfelt touch to the holiday season while saving money and showcasing your creativity. If you want to make the card doubly unique, include a handwritten note. You don’t have to be a poet—write about a memory you remember or a special thank you. A DIY card and note will be ten times more memorable than a Hallmark card!

• Gather materials like craft paper, paints, or yarn, and plan your designs.
• Tailor your card by incorporating their favorite colors, hobbies, or holiday traditions. Personal touches like handwritten notes make the card feel unique and thoughtful.
• Keep it simple – focus on key design elements to avoid overwhelming the card. A heartfelt message or a simple handmade illustration can be more impactful than a crowded layout.

There’s something magical about gifting a homemade card to a loved one—each card becomes a unique creation that speaks to the recipient personally.

Read More – Grow These 17 Delicious Edible Seed Plants For Edible And Nutritious Homegrown Seeds!

10. Clean And Coat Wooden Furniture Items

December’s dry indoor air and fluctuating temperatures can be harsh on wooden furniture, making it a great time to clean, condition, and protect your pieces. This task preserves their beauty and prevents cracks or warping.

• Dust surfaces thoroughly and wipe them down with a damp microfiber cloth.
• Apply a high-quality wood polish or furniture wax to restore shine and protect against drying.
• Check for loose joints or scratches and address them with wood glue or touch-up markers.

Running your hand over a well-tended dining table’s smooth, polished surface feels incredibly rewarding, especially knowing it’s ready to host the season’s gatherings.

11. Prepare For Icy And Snowy Weather

Winter storms can strike unexpectedly, so preparing for ice and snow in December ensures safety for you, your family, and your property. Stocking supplies and staying proactive prevents mishaps and reduces stress.

• Stock up on essentials like salt, sand, and snow shovels, and keep them accessible.
• Inspect walkways and driveways for cracks or low spots where water can collect and freeze.
• Test and maintain snowblowers or other equipment to ensure they’re in working order.

Few homesteading joys feel more satisfying than waking up to a snow-covered driveway and knowing you’re fully prepared to tackle it easily.

12. Surprise Neighbors With Christmas Goodies

Sharing homemade treats with neighbors fosters community spirit and spreads joy during the holiday season. Cookies, cupcakes, breads, jams, jellies, and muffins fit the bill splendidly.

• Bake easy-to-share goodies like cookies, fudge, or banana bread in festive packaging.
• Include a handwritten note or card with warm wishes for a personal touch.
• Deliver the treats in person to brighten someone’s day and strengthen connections.

Watching a neighbor’s face light up as they receive a tin of freshly baked cookies reminds you how small acts of kindness can build lasting bonds.

Read More – The 21 Fastest-Growing Trees And Shrubs To Use As Firewood. Stay Warm All Winter!

13. Winter Composting

Even in December, composting kitchen scraps and yard waste keeps your homestead eco-friendly and provides a head start on rich compost for spring gardening. With the proper methods, composting can continue year-round.

• Use insulated bins or pile covers to keep your compost warm enough to break down.
• Layer greens like vegetable scraps with browns like leaves or shredded cardboard for balance.
• Stir occasionally and monitor moisture levels to prevent freezing or stagnation.

Adding a bucket of steamy kitchen scraps to your compost pile on a frosty morning feels like defying winter’s dormancy—and knowing it’ll nourish your spring garden makes it even better.

14. Insulate Pipes To Prevent Bursts

Freezing temperatures in December can cause uninsulated pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs, tons of stress, and water damage. Wrapping your pipes in insulation helps keep them warm and ensures a steady water supply during winter.

• Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape, especially for pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.
• Seal gaps near pipes with caulk to block cold air from creeping in.
• Keep a slow drip running during extreme cold to prevent standing water from freezing.

The peace of mind that comes with knowing your pipes are safe and sound is worth every minute spent prepping, especially during a deep freeze.

15. Prepare For Seed Starting

December is the perfect month to plan for next year’s garden, starting with organizing your seed supplies and selecting crops for the coming season. Seed inventory isn’t the most exciting December task, but doing so ensures a solid start to your gardening year and helps you hit the ground running in early spring.

• Clean and sanitize seed trays, pots, and tools to prevent disease.
• Create a planting schedule based on frost dates and crop preferences.
• Order seeds now to secure popular varieties before they sell out.

Imagining tiny seedlings sprouting under grow lights while snow falls outside makes the cold months more bearable and fills you with anticipation for warmer days.

Read More – How To Grow Delicious Raspberries In Your Backyard Garden!

Conclusion

The rhythm of homesteading pulses the strongest in these winter months, where every action echoes with purpose and survival. Your careful preparations now will bloom into abundance when spring returns, turning this season of seeming stillness into a powerful prelude of growth.

What about you?

• Which December tasks do you look forward to most (or dread)?
• What unexpected lessons have winter homesteading taught you this year?
• How do you find joy and meaning in the seemingly mundane winter chores?

Thanks for reading.

Have a great day!

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