Escambia County, FL — Planting Guide
Escambia County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 266 days.
At an elevation of 432 ft, Escambia County receives approximately 61.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 44°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 37 days year to year — ranging from February 11 in warm years to March 20 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 3.09 days per decade. Escambia County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 3
🍂 First Frost
November 24
📅 Growing Season
266 days
⛰️ Elevation
432 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
61.9 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 | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 6 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| May | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 9.6 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.6 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.3 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.8 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 5 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 61.9 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.
Escambia County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.8-6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 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 20 | Dec 11 | 266 days |
| Cautious | Mar 8 | Nov 30 | 267 days |
| Average year | Mar 3 | Nov 24 | 266 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 19 | Nov 17 | 271 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 11 | Nov 12 | 274 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 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 shorter here (about 3.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Escambia County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Escambia 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 Escambia County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Escambia 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 Escambia County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Escambia County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Escambia 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 Escambia County FL" or "garden center Escambia 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 Escambia County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Escambia 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
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.4 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
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 57°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Escambia 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 | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Escambia 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 12 | Sep 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 9 | Sep 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 1 | Sep 29 | ✓ 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 3 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 28 | Feb 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 19 | Feb 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 12 | Feb 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 15 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 26 | Feb 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 27 | Feb 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 2 | Feb 10 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 11 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 (20 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
30,850 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
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 61.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,850 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Escambia County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 4.8–6 · Excessively Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (61.9 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
266-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
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Escambia County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Escambia County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – May 12 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – May 26 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 17 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – May 12 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Nov 17 – Dec 1 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Sep 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Aug 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 – Apr 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 17 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 17 | — | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 17 | — | May 12 – Jun 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 17 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Nov 17 – Dec 1 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 17 | — | Mar 31 – May 5 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Escambia County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Escambia County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Oct 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Dec 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Escambia County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Escambia County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | May 26 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 10 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 2 – Sep 1 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 10 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Escambia County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Escambia County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Escambia County, FL?
Escambia County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 Escambia County, FL?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Escambia County falls around March 3. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 11 and March 20 — a 37-day window of variability. Use March 20 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Escambia County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Escambia County arrives around November 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 12; in mild years as late as December 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Escambia County?
Escambia County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 266 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 shorter by about 3.09 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Escambia County for gardening?
Escambia County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 4.8–6 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 Escambia County?
Escambia 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 Escambia County a good location for home gardening?
Escambia County scores 45/100 (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 Escambia County gardeners in Zone 8b 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.
