Lecanto, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Citrus County, Florida gardeners in June
Your garden in Citrus County, Florida is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Basket week: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Before July arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
Lecanto gardens in a wet, humid climate (52" 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 (19.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
February 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 2
📅 Growing Season
292 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.1 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
2 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lecanto
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Lecanto's 52" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 7.8 in | 17 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.2 in | 17 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8.3 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.5 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2 in | 6 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Dec | 2.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 55.9 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.
Lecanto Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 15 | Dec 23 | 283 days |
| Cautious | Mar 1 | Dec 10 | 284 days |
| Average year | Feb 14 | Dec 2 | 291 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 3 | Nov 24 | 294 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 17 | Nov 18 | 305 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±57 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 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Citrus County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Citrus 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 Citrus County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Citrus 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 Citrus County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Citrus County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Citrus 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 Citrus County FL" or "garden center Citrus 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 Citrus County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Citrus 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 Lecanto
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Lecanto's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 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 | 10.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Lecanto
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Lecanto, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr 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 | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 56°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 58°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 79°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 93°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 97°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 91°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 59°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 Lecanto
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 Lecanto 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 | 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 Lecanto
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 26 | Sep 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 26 | Oct 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 22 | Sep 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 19 | Sep 30 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Feb 26 | Nov 18 | — | 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 2 | Jan 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 28 | Jan 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 22 | Jan 31 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 24 | Jan 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Lecanto
Why it matters: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Lecanto's 5.8 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: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (37 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lecanto
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Lecanto gets 52" 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
27,860 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 55.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,860 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 Lecanto
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Lecanto.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Jun 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 28 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – May 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jun 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 28 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – May 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – May 30 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – May 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Jun 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 25 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Feb 28 – Mar 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Jun 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 21 | — | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 21 | Jan 20 – Jul 7 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Oct 24 – Dec 19 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 28 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Aug 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 4 – May 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jun 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 16 – Aug 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 25 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – May 16 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jun 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Feb 21 – Mar 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Apr 4 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – May 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – Apr 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Feb 21 – Mar 14 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – May 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 28 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 25 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Oct 24 – Dec 19 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 24 | — | Oct 7 | Mar 7 – Apr 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Oct 7 | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jun 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 21 | — | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Aug 22 – Dec 19 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 3 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – May 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 17 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lecanto
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Lecanto.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | May 30 – Sep 12 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Jun 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 28 | — | May 30 – Dec 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lecanto
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Lecanto.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | May 9 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Apr 4 – May 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jun 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 9 – Aug 8 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 16 – Oct 3 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Feb 7 | Oct 7 | Mar 21 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 3 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 21 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lecanto
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Lecanto.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 3 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 28 – Sep 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 4 | Dec 2 – Dec 23 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 7 | Oct 14 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Dec 20 | Jan 17 | Sep 23 | Mar 14 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 6 | — | Jan 24 | — | Apr 4 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – Apr 11 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Dec 20 | Jan 17 | Sep 9 | Feb 28 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Nov 18 – Mar 24 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 17 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Apr 4 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – Apr 11 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 28 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Jan 17 | Jan 17 | Jan 17 | — | Mar 28 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Nov 4 | Oct 21 – Nov 11 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 20 | Dec 20 | Dec 20 | — | Feb 7 – Apr 11 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – Apr 11 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 21 | Nov 4 – Dec 2 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 3 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 6 | — | Jan 24 | — | Apr 4 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Feb 14 | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 4 | Nov 4 – Nov 25 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Aug 1 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Sep 26 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – Apr 25 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 2 – Mar 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Jul 18 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Dec 20 | — | Dec 20 | — | Feb 14 – Mar 14 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 10 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 28 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 – Sep 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 6 | — | Jan 17 | Sep 9 | Mar 7 – Jun 6 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Jan 17 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 7 | Oct 21 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 – Sep 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 20 | — | Jan 24 | — | Apr 4 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 20 | — | Jan 31 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Dec 20 | Jan 17 | Sep 9 | Mar 21 – Jul 18 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 24 | Jan 24 | Jan 24 | — | Apr 18 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Dec 20 | Jan 17 | Sep 23 | Feb 21 – Jun 6 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 2 – Jan 27 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 6 | — | Jan 24 | — | Apr 4 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Dec 20 | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 28 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Jan 24 | — | Apr 4 – Sep 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lecanto
ZIP Codes in Lecanto
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 Citrus County.
Your Citrus County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Citrus 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