Pinellas County, FL — Planting Guide
Pinellas County is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 25 and the first fall frost is December 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 326 days.
At an elevation of 246 ft, Pinellas County receives approximately 58.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 102°F with winter lows around 57°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 26 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 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 8.53 days per decade. Pinellas County scores 47/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
January 25
🍂 First Frost
December 16
📅 Growing Season
326 days
⛰️ Elevation
246 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
58.1 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 | 2.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.2 in | 6 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 7.6 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.5 in | 18 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8.7 in | 17 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.1 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 58.1 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.
Pinellas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.1-6.2
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 9 | Dec 20 | 314 days |
| Average year | Jan 25 | Dec 16 | 325 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 19 | Dec 10 | 325 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 8 | Nov 23 | 319 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 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 8.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Pinellas County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Pinellas 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 Pinellas County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Pinellas 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 Pinellas County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Pinellas County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Pinellas 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 Pinellas County FL" or "garden center Pinellas 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 Pinellas County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Pinellas 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
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 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 | 10.4 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 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 | 53°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 54°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 61°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 67°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 86°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 96°F | 93°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 90°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 81°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 69°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 58°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 Pinellas 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 | High | 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 Pinellas 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 | Jan 31 | Oct 21 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 4 | Oct 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 3 | Oct 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 28 | Oct 14 | ✓ 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 24 | Nov 25 | — | 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 22 | Jan 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 16 | Jan 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 26 | Jan 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Oct 2 | Jan 4 | ✓ 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: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 10 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 (38 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
28,957 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 58.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,957 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 Pinellas County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 5.1–6.2 · 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. (58.1 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 Pinellas County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Pinellas County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Feb 8 – Mar 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 4 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 – May 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Oct 4 – Nov 29 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jul 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – May 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 26 – Jul 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – May 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – May 31 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 – Mar 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 15 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 4 | — | Apr 19 – May 31 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 4 | — | Feb 1 – Feb 22 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 29 – May 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 4 | — | Apr 19 – May 31 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 5 – May 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – May 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 8 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – May 31 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Oct 4 – Nov 29 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 4 | — | Feb 15 – Mar 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – May 31 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Aug 2 – Nov 29 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pinellas County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Pinellas County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 8 | May 10 – Aug 23 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 8 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 8 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 8 | May 3 – Jun 14 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 8 | May 10 – Dec 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pinellas County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Pinellas County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Apr 19 – Jul 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 15 – May 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 22 – May 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 1 | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 22 – May 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 1 | May 3 – Oct 4 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – May 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Apr 19 – Jul 19 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 26 – Sep 13 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 1 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 1 | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 1 | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pinellas County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Pinellas County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Pinellas County, FL?
Pinellas 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 Pinellas County, FL?
Based on 26 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Pinellas County falls around January 25. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 8 and February 28 — a 51-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 Pinellas County, FL?
The median first fall frost in Pinellas County arrives around December 16. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 23; 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 Pinellas County?
Pinellas 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 longer by about 8.53 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Pinellas County for gardening?
Pinellas County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 5.1–6.2 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 Pinellas County?
Pinellas County has commercial agriculture that includes Citrus, Sugarcane, Cattle, 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 Pinellas County a good location for home gardening?
Pinellas 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 Pinellas 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.
