Gilchrist County, FL — Planting Guide
Gilchrist County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 269 days.
At an elevation of 236 ft, Gilchrist County receives approximately 53.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 102°F with winter lows around 57°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 28 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 54 days year to year — ranging from January 27 in warm years to March 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.95 days per decade. Gilchrist County scores 47/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 3
🍂 First Frost
November 27
📅 Growing Season
269 days
⛰️ Elevation
236 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
53.5 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 | 2.8 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 8 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.8 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.2 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.5 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53.5 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.
Gilchrist County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-5.8
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 22 | Dec 20 | 273 days |
| Cautious | Mar 12 | Dec 2 | 265 days |
| Average year | Mar 3 | Nov 27 | 269 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 14 | Nov 18 | 277 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 27 | Nov 10 | 287 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±54 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 4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Gilchrist County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Gilchrist County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist County FL" or "garden center Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Gilchrist 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
9.6 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 | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.4 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 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 | 53°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 62°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 67°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 96°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 78°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 68°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 56°F | 64°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 Gilchrist 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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Moderate | 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 Gilchrist 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 13 | Sep 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 9 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 12 | Sep 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 3 | 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 28 | 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 17 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 29 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 14 | Feb 10 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 16 | Feb 17 | ✓ 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: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (19 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
26,664 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 53.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,664 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 Gilchrist County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 5.2–5.8 · 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
269-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 Gilchrist County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Gilchrist County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 14 – May 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | 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 | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 10 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Nov 10 – Jan 5 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Aug 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Aug 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 – Apr 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 10 | — | Mar 10 – Mar 31 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Nov 10 – Jan 5 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 10 | — | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Sep 8 – Jan 5 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Gilchrist County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Gilchrist County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Sep 29 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jan 12 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Gilchrist County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Gilchrist County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | May 26 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | 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 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 26 – Aug 25 | 75–120 |
| 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 | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | 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 | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 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 Gilchrist County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Gilchrist County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Gilchrist County, FL?
Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist County, FL?
Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Gilchrist County falls around March 3. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 27 and March 22 — a 54-day window of variability. Use March 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Gilchrist County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Gilchrist County arrives around November 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 10; 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 Gilchrist County?
Gilchrist County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 269 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 3.95 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Gilchrist County for gardening?
Gilchrist County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 5.2–5.8 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 Gilchrist County?
Gilchrist County has commercial agriculture that includes Sugarcane, Citrus, Tomatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Gilchrist County a good location for home gardening?
Gilchrist County scores 47/100 (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 Gilchrist 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.
