Lithia, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June to-do list for Lithia, FL
Each item below is timed to Lithia, FL's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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Bring in the peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Lithia gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 10a, 330 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
10a (30°F to 35°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
January 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
330 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 56.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 16% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lithia
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Lithia's 57" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 6 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Mar | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| May | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 8.1 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.7 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.5 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.
Lithia Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 26 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Feb 23 | Dec 25 | 305 days |
| Cautious | Feb 6 | Dec 23 | 320 days |
| Average year | Jan 25 | Dec 20 | 329 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 17 | Dec 9 | 326 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 5 | Nov 20 | 319 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±48 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 5.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hillsborough County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hillsborough County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County FL" or "garden center Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hillsborough 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 Lithia
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Lithia's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.4 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Lithia
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Lithia's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 53°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 66°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 97°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 92°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 58°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Lithia
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Lithia 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 Lithia
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jan 25 | Oct 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 6 | Oct 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jan 31 | Oct 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 26 | Oct 11 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Feb 12 | Nov 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Oct 10 | Jan 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 16 | Jan 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 22 | Jan 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Oct 4 | Jan 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Lithia
For new gardeners: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Lithia's 7.5 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (39 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lithia
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Lithia gets 57" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
27,162 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 1,250 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, Apr, Nov
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 54.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,162 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 Lithia
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Lithia.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 4 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 4 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Feb 8 – Mar 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 4 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 19 – May 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Oct 4 – Dec 13 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Jul 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 17 – Jun 21 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jul 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – May 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jul 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – May 31 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Feb 1 – Mar 1 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 4 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 1 – Feb 22 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 5 – May 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 22 – May 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Oct 4 – Dec 13 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 4 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 15 – Mar 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 25 | Oct 25 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – May 31 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 1 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Aug 2 – Jan 17 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 14 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lithia
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Lithia.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Aug 23 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Jun 14 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 8 | — | May 10 – Feb 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lithia
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Lithia.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Apr 19 – Jul 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 31 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 15 – May 3 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 1 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 – Jul 19 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 28 | Jan 4 | Jan 18 | Oct 25 | Mar 22 – May 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – Sep 13 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 14 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – May 31 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lithia
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Lithia.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 14 | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | — | Feb 15 – Aug 30 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 16 | Dec 14 | Sep 27 | Feb 8 – May 17 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 16 | — | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 16 | Dec 14 | Sep 13 | Jan 25 – May 3 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Dec 28 | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Dec 28 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 14 | — | Dec 28 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Nov 30 | Nov 16 | Nov 16 | — | Jan 4 – Feb 22 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 13 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Dec 28 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 16 | — | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Nov 30 | — | Dec 21 | — | Mar 1 – Sep 13 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 25 | Jan 3 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | — | Feb 15 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Dec 28 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 8 – Sep 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 14 | Sep 13 | Jan 25 – Apr 5 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Nov 30 | — | Dec 28 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Dec 28 | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | — | Feb 8 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Nov 30 | — | Dec 28 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 20 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Nov 30 | — | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 14 | — | Dec 28 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 16 | Dec 14 | Sep 13 | Feb 15 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 4 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Mar 8 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 16 | Dec 14 | Sep 27 | Jan 11 – Apr 5 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 16 | — | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Dec 28 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lithia
ZIP Codes in Lithia
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 Hillsborough County.
Your Hillsborough County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hillsborough County (Zone 10a). 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