This Central Florida planting guide provides a month-by-month breakdown of what to plant in your garden, ensuring you maximize your yield and enjoy fresh produce year-round, leveraging the unique subtropical climate.
Central Florida’s subtropical climate allows for year-round gardening, but knowing what to plant when is key to success. This guide offers a comprehensive monthly breakdown, covering vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers, helping you create a thriving garden no matter the season.
January in the Central Florida Garden
The “winter” season in Central Florida still presents opportunities for abundant growth. While frost can occasionally occur, many cool-season crops thrive.
Vegetables to Plant in January
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Peas
- Radishes
- Spinach
Herbs and Flowers to Plant in January
- Cilantro
- Dill
- Parsley
- Calendula
- Pansy
- Viola
February in the Central Florida Garden
February marks the beginning of the transition to warmer weather. Start thinking about your spring garden while continuing to enjoy cool-season crops.
Vegetables to Plant in February
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Beets
- Cucumbers
- Eggplant
- Melons
- Peppers
- Squash (summer varieties)
- Tomatoes
Preparing for Spring
- Start seeds indoors for warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant.
- Amend your soil with compost or other organic matter.
March in the Central Florida Garden
Spring arrives in Central Florida with warmer temperatures and longer days, perfect for a wide variety of plants.
Transitioning to Warm-Season Crops
- Begin transplanting warm-season seedlings started indoors.
- Direct sow seeds for heat-loving vegetables like corn and beans.
Flowers to Plant in March
- Geraniums
- Impatiens
- Marigolds
- Petunias
- Zinnias
April – June: Summer Gardening in Central Florida
The heat and humidity of summer in Central Florida present unique challenges, but careful planning allows for continued harvests.
Vegetables to Plant in Summer
- Beans (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Corn
- Okra
- Southern peas
- Sweet potatoes
- Watermelon
Tips for Summer Gardening
- Mulch heavily to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells.
- Provide shade for sensitive plants during the hottest part of the day.
July – August: Managing the Heat
These are typically the hottest months in Central Florida. Focus on heat-tolerant varieties and diligent garden maintenance.
Maintaining Summer Crops
- Monitor for pests and diseases, which are more prevalent during hot, humid weather.
- Harvest vegetables regularly to encourage continued production.
September – October: Fall Gardening in Central Florida
As temperatures start to cool, fall gardening in Central Florida is similar to spring, offering another opportunity for a wide variety of plantings.
Vegetables to Plant in Fall
Many of the same vegetables planted in spring can be planted again in fall.
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Turnips
Preparing for Cooler Weather
- Begin to reduce watering frequency as temperatures drop.
- Protect tender plants from potential frost.
November – December: Winter Gardening in Central Florida
Winter in Central Florida allows for a continuation of cool-season gardening.
Extending the Season
- Utilize row covers or cold frames to protect plants from frost and extend the growing season.
Enjoying the Harvest
- Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor with fresh, homegrown produce throughout the winter months.
FAQs: Central Florida Gardening
Q: What is the best time to plant tomatoes in Central Florida?
A: The best time to plant tomatoes in Central Florida is typically in February for a spring harvest and again in September for a fall harvest.
Q: How can I protect my plants from frost?
A: Use row covers, blankets, or even cardboard boxes to cover plants during periods of frost.
Q: What are some common pests in Central Florida gardens?
A: Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and nematodes.
Q: How often should I water my garden in Central Florida?
A: Watering frequency depends on the season and the specific needs of your plants. Generally, watering deeply and less frequently is preferable to shallow, frequent watering. Check the soil moisture regularly.
Conclusion
Gardening in Central Florida can be a rewarding experience year-round. By understanding the specific needs of different plants during each season and following this Central Florida planting guide, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest and a thriving garden no matter the month. Remember to adjust your planting schedule based on your microclimate and specific conditions. Happy gardening!