When to plant Lemon Thyme in DeSoto County, FL
In DeSoto County, Lemon Thyme is a spring-only crop. Plant February 8–February 22 once soil hits 50°F.
When to Plant Lemon Thyme in DeSoto County, FL
Lemon thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, citrus-scented leaves. It combines the savory quality of thyme with a bright lemon flavor, excellent with fish and poultry.
DeSoto County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 1 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 322 days.
At an elevation of 214 feet, DeSoto County receives approximately 53.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Lemon Thyme may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Lemon Thyme will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lemon Thyme root diseases.
DeSoto County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Thyme Planting Timeline — DeSoto County, FL
Lemon Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 8 | Feb 8 – Feb 22 |
| Harvest | April 19 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
322 days in DeSoto County
Growing Tips for DeSoto County
Start from cuttings or divisions. Plant in well-drained soil. Trim back after flowering. Use as a fragrant ground cover or edging plant along garden paths.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in DeSoto County, FL?
DeSoto County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 1. Plan your Lemon Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeSoto County, FL?
DeSoto County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 1 and first fall frost is December 20.
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in DeSoto County, FL?
In DeSoto County, FL, plant Lemon Thyme after the last frost (around February 1) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is DeSoto County, FL for Lemon Thyme?
DeSoto County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Lemon Thyme grows reliably in zones 5a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Thyme grow in DeSoto County's climate?
Yes — Lemon Thyme grows well in DeSoto County's temperate climate. DeSoto County averages a 323-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 1 and first frost around December 20.
Your DeSoto County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeSoto County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.