Gretna, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Gadsden County, Florida — your action list
A quick June briefing for Gadsden County, Florida gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Pick basil, cucumber, and green beans
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Gretna gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 9a, 259 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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.
Gretna averages 22.7 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 7
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 21
📅 Growing Season
259 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Gretna
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Gretna's 0" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 9.2 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8 in | 17 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8.8 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.5 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 60 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.
Gretna Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-6.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 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 26 | Dec 15 | 264 days |
| Cautious | Mar 14 | Nov 28 | 259 days |
| Average year | Mar 7 | Nov 21 | 259 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 28 | Nov 12 | 257 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 15 | Nov 2 | 260 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 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 3.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Gadsden County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Gadsden 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 Gadsden County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Gadsden 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 Gadsden County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Gadsden County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Gadsden 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 Gadsden County FL" or "garden center Gadsden 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 Gadsden County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Gadsden 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 Gretna
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Gretna, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Gretna
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Gretna's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°F | 59°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 Gretna
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Gretna's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
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 | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Gretna
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: In Gretna, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 14 | Sep 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 16 | Sep 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 14 | Sep 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 9 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 21 | Nov 7 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 19 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 25 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 8 | Feb 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 5 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 15 | Feb 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 22 | Feb 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 16 | Feb 14 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Gretna
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Gretna averages 5.5 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
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: 10 mph Winter: 11 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 (48 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Gretna
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Gretna gets 0" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
29,904 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 60.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,904 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 Gretna
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Gretna.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jun 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Mar 21 – Apr 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 10 | Jan 9 – Jun 26 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Nov 14 – Jan 9 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Aug 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Mar 14 – Apr 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Mar 14 – Apr 4 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Nov 14 – Jan 9 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 14 | — | Sep 26 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Sep 26 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | Sep 12 – Jan 9 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Gretna
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Gretna.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 20 – Jan 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Gretna
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Gretna.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | May 30 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 25 – Jun 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 4 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 30 – Aug 29 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Sep 26 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 14 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Gretna
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Gretna.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 24 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 24 | Nov 21 – Dec 12 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 10 | Feb 7 | Sep 12 | Apr 4 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 27 | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 2 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 10 | Feb 7 | Aug 29 | Mar 21 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 7 – Mar 13 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 7 | Feb 7 | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 24 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 10 | Jan 10 | Jan 10 | — | Feb 28 – May 2 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 2 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 10 | Oct 24 – Nov 21 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 24 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 27 | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 24 | Oct 24 – Nov 14 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Aug 22 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 16 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Nov 21 – Mar 13 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Aug 8 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 10 | — | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 – Apr 4 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 31 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 27 | — | Feb 7 | Aug 29 | Mar 28 – Jun 27 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Oct 10 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 10 | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 10 | — | Feb 21 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 10 | Feb 7 | Aug 29 | Apr 11 – Aug 8 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 10 | Feb 7 | Sep 12 | Mar 14 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Nov 21 – Jan 16 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 27 | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 10 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Gretna
ZIP Codes in Gretna
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 Gadsden County.
Your Gadsden County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Gadsden County (Zone 9a). 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