Nov 19, 2025
Clara Hagar
Why Winter Gardening Matters for Mental Health
The changing of seasons is never as obvious as we expect. It’s a slow process, chipping away at the lively summer days until, suddenly, autumn has taken hold. In Denmark, these times come quicker than most; the cold and dark come racing to our doorsteps. In a period often associated with decay and lethargy, it becomes easy to follow suit. While it is natural to let go and wind down as our environment invites us to, it also urges us to ask how we can incorporate growth into a time when it seems counterintuitive. As gardeners, we see how tending nature benefits our mental and physical health—should we give this up when darkness ushers us inside?
In Denmark, the winter is nothing less than brutal. A biting cold, stagnant darkness; the ultimate test of the elements. There seems to be a collective understanding of both “buckle up” and “bundle up” for the long dark months ahead. However, this collective understanding goes beyond the weather; winter for Danes means resilience. It is known that the winter is impossible to power through alone, and from this comes a special type of solidarity through community. We acknowledge that of every hardship in history, we are the result of grit and perseverance; individuals striving to make a future for themselves and their families had to survive just as we do. Winter is both a reminder and an opportunity to beat the odds and survive together.
But what does this mean for gardeners? Is there something to take away from the Danish approach to darker months?
Decades of research show that reduced daylight in winter can disturb our circadian rhythms, leading to fatigue and lower mood. Gentle, mindful routines like gardening can help restore balance, grounding us in something steady and alive. Small acts that pull us into the present, like putting our hands in the soil or pruning a plant, counter the pull towards internal rumination. Beyond our individual wellbeing, these shared practices foster community, driven by purpose in the darker months. Shared practices around nature bring people together, strengthening our sense of belonging when isolation creeps in. In this way, winter gardening becomes more than a pastime; it becomes an act of collective resilience. Explore more about collective impact.
How to Start a Winter Garden: 4 Simple Ways
Bringing this into practice doesn’t require much space or special setup. You can thrive by starting small, and creating intentional anchors throughout the season:
Windowsill herb garden: a simple way to stay connected to growth and gain daily light exposure. Grow basil, parsley, cilantro, or mint on a south-facing windowsill for daily light exposure and fresh herbs year-round.
Countertop microgreens: nutrient-dense greens, provide a quick win, boosting your momentum. Grow nutrient-dense sunflower shoots, pea shoots, or radish greens in just 7-10 days with minimal space: a tray, some soil, and a sunny spot.
Winter planning ritual: Dedicate one evening per week to seed catalogs, garden journaling, and sketching your spring layout. Make it cozy with candlelight or tea, and consider organizing a seed swap as your holiday gift exchange; building anticipation while staying connected to your growing practice.
Community seed swap or winter gardening circle: Join or start a monthly gathering where gardeners share seeds, indoor growing tips, and winter harvests. These rituals build connection and shared purpose when isolation creeps in and keeps the spirit of shared growing alive. Learn more about preparing for spring crops.
Growing Food Indoors: A Danish Approach to Dark Winters
During my last Danish winter, I felt an urge to try something new. The days felt unbearably short and I often found myself giving in to the rhythm of retreat. Out of curiosity, I planted the first seeds I could find in planters on my windowsill, Thai chilies. It was something small and I didn't expect much from it. Without much forethought, I did it simply to give the short days a pulse and build a routine I desperately needed. Besides, how could a small tropical pepper be expected to endure the darkness? However, those peppers did much more than endure. Watching the plants flourish in spite of the cold, limited light reminded me that progress still happens, even when it slows. The act of caring for something living reassured me of the wonder of growth and perseverance. And to top it off, the warm soups for my cold days were given a little extra heat, further fueling my small, defiant act of growth. Whether you're facing Danish winters or simply shorter days wherever you live, these practices work in any climate with limited winter sunlight.
This season, commit to one act of resilience, one opportunity for growth. Whether it’s caring for a single plant, joining a community garden circle, or planning for the spring ahead, let it remind you that growth never truly stops. At Rhubarb, we’re here to support through guidance, shared stories, and Ruby, all built to help you nurture your garden year-round. We can grow through the dark, together.
Read more Growing Journeys.