Lorida, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Lorida, FL
A quick June briefing for Lorida, FL gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Collect basil, peppers, and thai basil at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Lorida gardens in a wet, humid climate (53" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Native soil is Sand — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.8 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
January 29
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
326 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 53.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lorida
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Lorida's 53" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 5 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 8.5 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.5 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.1 in | 19 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 8 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57.8 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.
Lorida Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-5.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 21 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 2 | Dec 24 | 297 days |
| Cautious | Feb 14 | Dec 23 | 312 days |
| Average year | Jan 29 | Dec 20 | 325 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 22 | Dec 9 | 321 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 10 | Dec 6 | 330 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±52 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.9 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Highlands County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Highlands 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 Highlands County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Highlands 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 Highlands County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Highlands County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Highlands 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 Highlands County FL" or "garden center Highlands 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 Highlands County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Highlands 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 Lorida
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Lorida matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
13.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.3 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 Lorida
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Lorida's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Mar through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 55°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 61°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 67°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 94°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 98°F | 94°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 92°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 81°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°F | 63°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 Lorida
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 Lorida sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | 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 Lorida
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: 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 | Feb 6 | Oct 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Jan 30 | Oct 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 6 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 30 | 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 11 | Dec 6 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Oct 25 | Jan 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 16 | Jan 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 25 | Jan 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 29 | Jan 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Lorida
For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Lorida's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (34 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lorida
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Lorida's 53" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
28,807 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
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 57.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,807 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 Lorida
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Lorida.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 14 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Feb 12 – Mar 5 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Feb 7 – Jul 25 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Oct 8 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jul 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jun 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 14 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Feb 5 – Mar 5 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 5 – Feb 26 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Oct 8 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 8 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 19 – Mar 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Aug 6 – Dec 3 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lorida
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Lorida.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | May 14 – Aug 27 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | May 14 – Dec 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lorida
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Lorida.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 7 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 28 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jul 23 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Sep 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lorida
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Lorida.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 18 | Jan 8 | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 29 | Dec 27 – Jan 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 27 | Dec 25 | Oct 11 | Feb 19 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 20 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Dec 4 | Jan 8 | Jan 15 | — | Mar 26 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 27 | Dec 25 | Sep 27 | Feb 5 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Mar 28 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 8 | — | Mar 12 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Dec 4 | Jan 8 | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Jan 1 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Nov 22 | Nov 8 – Nov 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 4 | — | Jan 15 | — | Mar 26 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 4 | Nov 27 | Nov 27 | — | Jan 15 – Mar 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Dec 4 | Jan 15 | Jan 15 | — | Mar 26 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 15 – Dec 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 18 | Jan 8 | Jan 8 | — | Mar 19 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 20 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 29 | Nov 29 – Dec 20 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Dec 4 | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 19 – Sep 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jan 8 | — | Feb 26 – Apr 2 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 18 | Dec 27 – Apr 4 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Dec 4 | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 19 – Jun 11 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Dec 4 | — | Nov 27 | — | Jan 22 – Feb 19 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Dec 25 | Jan 8 | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Nov 20 | — | Dec 25 | Sep 27 | Feb 12 – Apr 30 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 4 | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 19 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 8 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 15 – Dec 13 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 4 | — | Jan 8 | — | Mar 19 – Sep 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 4 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 4 | — | Jan 8 | — | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 27 | Dec 25 | Sep 27 | Feb 26 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 8 | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | — | Mar 26 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 27 | Dec 25 | Oct 11 | Jan 29 – Apr 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Dec 20 – Jan 31 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 20 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Dec 4 | Jan 8 | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lorida
ZIP Codes in Lorida
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 Highlands County.
Your Highlands County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Highlands County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log