Murdock, FL — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Charlotte County, Florida
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Charlotte County, Florida this July and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
-
It's harvest week for ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
August will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and artichoke
Murdock gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 10a, 271 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 (18.0 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 29
📅 Growing Season
271 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 39% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Murdock
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Murdock gets 53" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.5 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 7.4 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 10 in | 20 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8.5 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.9 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
Annual total: 59.2 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.
Murdock Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.8
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 | — | — |
| Cautious | Feb 9 | — | — |
| Average year | Jan 29 | — | — |
| Optimistic | Jan 19 | — | — |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 5 | — | — |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±56 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 5.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Charlotte County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Charlotte 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 Charlotte County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Charlotte 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 Charlotte County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Charlotte County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Charlotte 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 Charlotte County FL" or "garden center Charlotte 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 Charlotte County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Charlotte County Gardeners" or "Florida Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant Next in Murdock
In a year-round growing climate, succession planning isn't about beating frost — it's about matching the next crop to the next season's heat.
Cool-season crops typically finish March–April as temperatures climb. Don't replant lettuce or brassicas now — they'll bolt within weeks. Switch to heat-lovers.
Spring tomato vines fade as summer humidity rises. Pull them by June and plant heat-survivors that thrive in the conditions tomatoes hate.
As humidity drops in September–October, the second growing season opens. Plant transplants of tomatoes, peppers, eggplant — they'll set fruit through fall and into winter.
Winter is your "spring" — direct-sow every 2 weeks for continuous lettuce, spinach, and radish harvests. Plant strawberries, garlic, and onions. Brassicas planted now finish in January–March.
Sunlight & Day Length in Murdock
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Murdock's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
13.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.5 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.6 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.3 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.5 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.3 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Murdock
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Murdock's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Feb through Dec.
Best Month to Compost
Mar
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 | 59°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 62°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 65°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Apr | 73°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 96°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 90°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 83°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 71°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 62°F | 69°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 Murdock
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: In Murdock's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Whiteflies | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Spider mites | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Murdock
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: 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 | Jan 8 | Oct 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Jan 5 | Oct 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jan 6 | Oct 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 6 | Oct 29 | ✓ 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 | Jan 26 | Dec 17 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (1 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson clover | Nov 6 | Dec 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
Wind & Microclimate in Murdock
Why it matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Murdock's 7.3 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (26 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Murdock
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: 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. Murdock gets 53" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
29,505 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 59.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,505 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 Murdock
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Murdock.
Show all 105 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 | — | Feb 18 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Feb 12 – Mar 5 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 18 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Oct 8 – Dec 17 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–65 |
| 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 5 | — | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 30 – Jul 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Feb 5 – Mar 5 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 18 | Feb 5 – Feb 26 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | 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 |
| 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 | Feb 18 | 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 17 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 8 | — | Feb 18 | Feb 19 – Mar 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 29 | Feb 18 | 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 – Jan 21 | 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 Murdock
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Murdock.
Show all 16 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 |
| 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 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 12 | — | May 14 – Feb 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Murdock
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Murdock.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | Apr 23 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | Mar 19 – May 7 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | Mar 5 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 1 | Jan 8 | Jan 22 | Feb 18 | 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| 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 | Feb 18 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Sep 17 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Murdock
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Murdock.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 18 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 3 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Mar 4 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 20 | Dec 18 | Jan 21 | Feb 12 – May 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 20 | — | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 20 | Dec 18 | Jan 7 | Jan 29 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Jan 7 | Mar 18 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 1 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Feb 26 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Jan 1 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 18 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 4 | Nov 20 | Nov 20 | — | Jan 8 – Feb 26 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Mar 4 | Mar 4 – Apr 8 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 20 | — | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Dec 4 | — | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 17 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Feb 18 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Feb 19 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 1 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 12 – Sep 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 18 | Jan 7 | Jan 29 – Apr 9 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 4 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Jan 1 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Feb 12 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Mar 4 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 4 | — | Jan 1 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 24 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 4 | — | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 18 | — | Jan 1 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 20 | Dec 18 | Jan 7 | Feb 19 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 8 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Mar 12 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 20 | Dec 18 | Jan 21 | Jan 15 – Apr 9 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 20 | — | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 1 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Murdock
ZIP Codes in Murdock
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 Charlotte County.
Your Charlotte County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Charlotte 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