Arcadia, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Arcadia, FL
A quick June briefing for Arcadia, FL gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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It's harvest week for basil, peppers, and thai basil
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Arcadia gardens in a wet, humid climate (53" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Native soil is Sand — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
February 1
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
323 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 53.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 22% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
3 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Arcadia
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Arcadia's 53" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.5 in | 7 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Mar | 3.7 in | 6 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.7 in | 6 days | 1.6 in | High |
| May | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 8.3 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.5 in | 18 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.8 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.1 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53.6 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.
Arcadia Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-6
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 25 | 298 days |
| Cautious | Feb 14 | Dec 23 | 312 days |
| Average year | Feb 1 | Dec 20 | 322 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 22 | Dec 10 | 322 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 2.8 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
DeSoto County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in DeSoto 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 DeSoto County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
DeSoto 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 DeSoto County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in DeSoto County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to DeSoto 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 DeSoto County FL" or "garden center DeSoto 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 DeSoto County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "DeSoto 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 in Arcadia
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Arcadia matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
13.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.4 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 | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.3 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.5 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 in Arcadia
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Arcadia's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
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 | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 62°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 69°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 89°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 94°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 94°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 82°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 59°F | 65°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 Arcadia
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Arcadia sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 Arcadia
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 6 | Oct 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 2 | Oct 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 1 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 4 | Oct 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 | Feb 18 | 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 11 | Jan 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 18 | Jan 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 31 | Jan 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Oct 8 | Jan 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Arcadia
Why it matters: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Arcadia's 7.3 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 13 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 (23 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Arcadia
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Arcadia's 53" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
26,714 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
Feb, 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 53.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,714 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Arcadia
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Arcadia.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | May 10 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 31 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 17 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Feb 15 – Mar 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Feb 7 – Jul 25 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Oct 11 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jul 26 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jul 26 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 3 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Feb 8 – Mar 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 8 – Mar 1 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – May 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Oct 11 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 11 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 22 – Mar 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Feb 1 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 8 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Aug 9 – Dec 6 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 21 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Arcadia
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Arcadia.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | May 17 – Aug 30 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 21 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 15 | — | May 17 – Dec 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Arcadia
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Arcadia.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jul 12 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – May 31 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 – Jul 26 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 21 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Arcadia
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Arcadia.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 21 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 6 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 29 | Dec 27 – Jan 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 30 | Dec 28 | Oct 11 | Feb 22 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 23 | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 15 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Dec 7 | Jan 11 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 30 | Dec 28 | Sep 27 | Feb 8 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Mar 28 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 15 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Dec 7 | Jan 11 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 15 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Jan 4 | Dec 28 | Dec 28 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Nov 22 | Nov 8 – Nov 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 7 | — | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 7 | Nov 30 | Nov 30 | — | Jan 18 – Mar 15 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 15 – Dec 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 21 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 22 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 23 | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 15 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 29 | Nov 29 – Dec 20 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Dec 7 | — | Jan 11 | — | Mar 22 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 18 | Dec 27 – Apr 4 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Dec 7 | — | Jan 11 | — | Mar 22 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Dec 7 | — | Nov 30 | — | Jan 25 – Feb 22 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 – Sep 13 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Nov 23 | — | Dec 28 | Sep 27 | Feb 15 – May 3 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 7 | — | Jan 11 | — | Mar 22 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Jan 4 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 15 – Dec 13 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 7 | — | Jan 11 | — | Mar 22 – Sep 20 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 7 | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 15 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 7 | — | Jan 11 | — | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 30 | Dec 28 | Sep 27 | Mar 1 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 11 | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | — | Mar 29 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 30 | Dec 28 | Oct 11 | Feb 1 – May 3 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Dec 20 – Jan 31 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 23 | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 15 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Dec 7 | Jan 11 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 15 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | — | Mar 15 – Sep 13 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Arcadia
ZIP Codes in Arcadia
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in DeSoto County.
Your DeSoto County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeSoto County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log