Highlands County, FL — Planting Guide
Highlands County is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 29 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 326 days.
At an elevation of 111 ft, Highlands County receives approximately 57.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 59°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 21 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 52 days year to year — ranging from January 10 in warm years to March 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.9 days per decade. Highlands County scores 51/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
January 29
🍂 First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
326 days
⛰️ Elevation
111 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
57.6 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 | 2.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 5 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 8.5 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.5 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.1 in | 19 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 8 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57.8 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.
Highlands County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-5.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 21 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 2 | Dec 24 | 297 days |
| Cautious | Feb 14 | Dec 23 | 312 days |
| Average year | Jan 29 | Dec 20 | 325 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 22 | Dec 9 | 321 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 10 | Dec 6 | 330 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±52 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 1.9 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Highlands County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Highlands 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 Highlands County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Highlands 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 Highlands County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Highlands County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Highlands 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 Highlands County FL" or "garden center Highlands 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 Highlands County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Highlands 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
13.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 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 | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.3 hr | 5.5 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 | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 55°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 61°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 67°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 94°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 98°F | 94°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 92°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 81°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°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 Highlands 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 | 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 Highlands 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 | Feb 6 | Oct 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Jan 30 | Oct 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 6 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 30 | 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 11 | Dec 6 | — | 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 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 16 | Jan 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 25 | Jan 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 29 | Jan 8 | ✓ 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: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (34 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
28,807 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 57.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,807 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 Highlands County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 4.9–5.8 · 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. (57.6 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
326-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 Highlands County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Highlands County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 12 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 12 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 14 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 – Mar 5 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 8 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Oct 8 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 12 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jul 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 30 – Jul 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – May 14 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 – Mar 5 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 19 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 8 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 5 – Feb 26 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 8 | — | Apr 2 – May 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 8 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Oct 8 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 19 – Mar 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Aug 6 – Dec 3 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Highlands County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Highlands County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 12 | May 14 – Aug 27 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 12 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 12 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 12 | May 14 – Dec 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Highlands County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Highlands County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Apr 23 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 19 – May 7 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 5 | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 5 | May 7 – Oct 8 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – May 28 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 23 – Jul 23 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 30 – Sep 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 5 | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 5 | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Highlands County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Highlands County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Highlands County, FL?
Highlands County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. 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 Highlands County, FL?
Based on 21 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Highlands County falls around January 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 10 and March 2 — a 52-day window of variability. Use March 2 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Highlands County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Highlands County arrives around December 20. In cold years it can arrive as early as December 6; in mild years as late as December 24. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Highlands County?
Highlands County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 326 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 1.9 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Highlands County for gardening?
Highlands County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 4.9–5.8 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 Highlands County?
Highlands County has commercial agriculture that includes Citrus, Sugarcane, Tomatoes, Green Beans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Highlands County a good location for home gardening?
Highlands County scores 51/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Highlands County gardeners in Zone 9b 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.
