Manatee County, FL — Planting Guide
Manatee County is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 28 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 327 days.
At an elevation of 237 ft, Manatee County receives approximately 57.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 103°F with winter lows around 58°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 26 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 50 days year to year — ranging from January 8 in warm years to February 28 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 5.55 days per decade. Manatee County scores 47/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
January 28
🍂 First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
327 days
⛰️ Elevation
237 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 | 2.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3 in | 5 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 8.7 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.4 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.2 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 8.4 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 5 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57.7 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.
Manatee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 26 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) | Feb 28 | Dec 24 | 299 days |
| Cautious | Feb 12 | Dec 23 | 314 days |
| Average year | Jan 28 | Dec 20 | 326 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 22 | Dec 8 | 320 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 8 | Nov 29 | 325 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±50 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 5.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Manatee County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Manatee 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 Manatee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Manatee 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 Manatee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Manatee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Manatee 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 Manatee County FL" or "garden center Manatee 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 Manatee County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Manatee 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
9.1 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: 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 | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.3 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 | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 53°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 60°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 89°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 93°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 70°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 Manatee 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 Manatee 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 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 2 | Oct 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 7 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 3 | 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 26 | Nov 22 | — | 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 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 18 | Jan 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 24 | Jan 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Oct 4 | Jan 7 | ✓ 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: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 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 (29 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
28,757 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
Jan, 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 57.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,757 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 Manatee County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 5–5.9 · Well 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
327-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 Manatee County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Manatee County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 7 | — | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 11 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 7 | — | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 – Mar 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 7 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 7 | — | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 15 – May 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Oct 7 – Dec 2 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jul 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 18 – Apr 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – Apr 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 29 – Jul 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – May 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jul 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 – Mar 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 18 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 7 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 7 | — | Feb 4 – Feb 25 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 15 – May 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 7 | — | Apr 1 – May 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 7 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 4 – Apr 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Oct 7 – Dec 2 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 7 | — | Feb 18 – Mar 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 28 | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Aug 5 – Dec 2 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 17 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 31 | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Manatee County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Manatee County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 11 | May 13 – Aug 26 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 11 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 11 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 11 | May 13 – Dec 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Manatee County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Manatee County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Apr 22 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 18 – May 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 25 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 4 | Jun 10 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Mar 25 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 25 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 4 | May 6 – Oct 7 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – May 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 22 – Jul 22 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 29 – Sep 16 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Dec 31 | Jan 7 | Jan 21 | Mar 4 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 17 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 4 | Jun 10 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 4 | May 6 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Manatee County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Manatee County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Manatee County, FL?
Manatee 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 Manatee County, FL?
Based on 26 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Manatee County falls around January 28. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 8 and February 28 — a 50-day window of variability. Use February 28 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Manatee County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Manatee County arrives around December 20. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 29; 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 Manatee County?
Manatee County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 327 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 5.55 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Manatee County for gardening?
Manatee County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 5–5.9 and Well 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 Manatee County?
Manatee County has commercial agriculture that includes Citrus, Cattle, Sugarcane, Tomatoes, Strawberries. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Manatee County a good location for home gardening?
Manatee 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 Manatee 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.
