Anna Maria, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
Your garden in Manatee County, Florida is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Start harvesting basil, peppers, and thai basil
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Anna Maria gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 10a, 327 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
Native soil is Sand — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Drought pressure is moderate (19.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
10a (30°F to 35°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
January 28
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
327 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 32.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Rare 56% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Anna Maria
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Anna Maria's 33" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3 in | 5 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 8.7 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.4 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.2 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 8.4 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 5 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Anna Maria Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 26 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Feb 28 | Dec 24 | 299 days |
| Cautious | Feb 12 | Dec 23 | 314 days |
| Average year | Jan 28 | Dec 20 | 326 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 22 | Dec 8 | 320 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 8 | Nov 29 | 325 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±50 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 5.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Manatee County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Manatee County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Manatee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Manatee County University of Florida IFAS Extension Extension Office
Phone: 352-392-1761
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Manatee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Manatee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Manatee County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Manatee County FL" or "garden center Manatee County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Manatee County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Manatee County Gardeners" or "Florida Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Anna Maria
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Anna Maria matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
13.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.3 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Anna Maria
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Anna Maria's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Mar through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 53°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 60°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 89°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 93°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Anna Maria
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Anna Maria's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Anna Maria
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: A fall-planted cover crop in Anna Maria is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 6 | Oct 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 2 | Oct 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 7 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 3 | Oct 11 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Feb 26 | Nov 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Oct 25 | Jan 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 18 | Jan 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 24 | Jan 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Oct 4 | Jan 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Anna Maria
For new gardeners: Pollinators avoid windy days. Anna Maria's 8.0 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (29 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Anna Maria
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Anna Maria's 33" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
28,757 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 57.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,757 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Anna Maria
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Anna Maria.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 11 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 7 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 11 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 7 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Feb 11 – Mar 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 7 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 15 – May 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Jul 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jun 24 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 18 – Apr 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | May 6 – Jun 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jul 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Feb 4 – Mar 4 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 8 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 7 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 4 – Feb 25 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 15 – May 27 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Mar 25 – May 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 7 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 18 – Mar 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Oct 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Aug 5 – Jan 20 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | — | Mar 25 – May 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Anna Maria
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Anna Maria.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | May 13 – Aug 26 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 – May 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 11 | — | May 6 – Jun 17 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | May 13 – Feb 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Anna Maria
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Anna Maria.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Apr 22 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 18 – May 6 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Mar 25 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 – Jul 22 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Oct 25 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Sep 16 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Anna Maria
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Anna Maria.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 17 | Dec 24 | Dec 24 | — | Feb 18 – Sep 2 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 19 | Dec 17 | Sep 27 | Feb 11 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 19 | — | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 19 | Dec 17 | Sep 13 | Jan 28 – May 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Dec 31 | Dec 24 | Dec 24 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Dec 31 | Dec 17 | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 28 | Jan 28 | — | Apr 8 – Nov 4 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 17 | — | Dec 31 | — | Mar 11 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 3 | Nov 19 | Nov 19 | — | Jan 7 – Feb 25 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 13 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 24 | Dec 31 | Dec 31 | — | Mar 11 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 19 | — | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 28 | Jan 28 | — | Apr 8 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Dec 3 | — | Dec 24 | — | Mar 4 – Sep 16 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 25 | Jan 3 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Dec 24 | Dec 24 | Dec 24 | — | Feb 18 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Dec 31 | Dec 17 | Dec 17 | — | Feb 11 – Sep 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 17 | Sep 13 | Jan 28 – Apr 8 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 3 | — | Dec 31 | — | Mar 11 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Dec 31 | Dec 24 | Dec 24 | — | Feb 11 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 3 | — | Dec 31 | — | Mar 11 – Sep 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 3 | — | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 17 | — | Dec 31 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 19 | Dec 17 | Sep 13 | Feb 18 – Jul 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 7 | Dec 17 | Dec 17 | — | Mar 11 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 19 | Dec 17 | Sep 27 | Jan 14 – Apr 8 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 19 | — | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Dec 31 | Dec 17 | Dec 17 | — | Feb 25 – Sep 9 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Anna Maria
ZIP Codes in Anna Maria
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Manatee County.
Your Manatee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Manatee County (Zone 10a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log