Alachua County, FL — Planting Guide
Alachua County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 23 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 278 days.
At an elevation of 398 ft, Alachua County receives approximately 50 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 99°F with winter lows around 51°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 28 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 57 days year to year — ranging from January 27 in warm years to March 24 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.32 days per decade. Alachua County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 23
🍂 First Frost
November 27
📅 Growing Season
278 days
⛰️ Elevation
398 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
50 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Apr | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| May | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 7.5 in | 17 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.4 in | 19 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.3 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.8 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 50 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.
Alachua County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-6.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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) | Mar 24 | Dec 20 | 271 days |
| Cautious | Mar 6 | Dec 5 | 274 days |
| Average year | Feb 23 | Nov 27 | 277 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 14 | Nov 19 | 278 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 27 | Nov 11 | 288 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±57 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 3.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Alachua County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Alachua 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 Alachua County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Alachua 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 Alachua County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Alachua County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Alachua 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 Alachua County FL" or "garden center Alachua 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 Alachua County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Alachua 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 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 | 10.3 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 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 Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr 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 | 54°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 54°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 69°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 94°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 91°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 81°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 55°F | 65°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 Alachua County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | High | 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 Alachua County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 3 | Oct 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 4 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 27 | Sep 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 29 | Sep 18 | ✓ 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 | Mar 25 | Nov 13 | — | 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 | Sep 26 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 20 | Feb 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 9 | Feb 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 14 | Feb 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (55 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,920 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 1,250 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
Apr, 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 50.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,920 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Alachua County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 5.2–6.1 · Excessively Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
278-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Alachua County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Alachua County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 – May 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 – Mar 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 2 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Nov 2 – Dec 28 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 – Mar 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 2 – Mar 23 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 2 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Nov 2 – Dec 28 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 16 – Apr 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Aug 31 – Dec 28 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Alachua County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Alachua County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Jan 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Alachua County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Alachua County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Nov 2 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 18 – Aug 17 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 2 | May 25 – Oct 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Alachua County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Alachua County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Alachua County, FL?
Alachua County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Alachua County, FL?
Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Alachua County falls around February 23. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 27 and March 24 — a 57-day window of variability. Use March 24 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Alachua County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Alachua County arrives around November 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 11; in mild years as late as December 20. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Alachua County?
Alachua County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 278 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 3.32 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Alachua County for gardening?
Alachua County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.1 and Excessively Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Alachua County?
Alachua County has commercial agriculture that includes Citrus, Sugarcane, Tomatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Alachua County a good location for home gardening?
Alachua County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Alachua County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
