Saint Cloud, FL — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July to-do list for Osceola County, Florida
Welcome to July in Zone 10a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Pick ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and artichoke
Saint Cloud gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 10a, 333 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 (17.8 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 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 20
📅 Growing Season
333 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 33% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
17.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
5 ZIPs conditions vary — enter your ZIP for exact data
Monthly Watering Calendar for Saint Cloud
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Saint Cloud's 53" 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 | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3.9 in | 6 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Apr | 3 in | 5 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 8.2 in | 18 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 9.6 in | 18 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8.1 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.1 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 58.7 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.
Saint Cloud Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-6.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 20 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 18 | Dec 24 | 309 days |
| Cautious | Feb 4 | Dec 23 | 322 days |
| Average year | Jan 22 | Dec 20 | 332 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 12 | Dec 12 | 334 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 5 | Dec 6 | 335 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±44 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 3.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Osceola County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Osceola 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 Osceola County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Osceola 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 Osceola County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Osceola County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Osceola 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 Osceola County FL" or "garden center Osceola 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 Osceola County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Osceola 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 Saint Cloud
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Saint Cloud's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.4 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 | 7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Saint Cloud
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Saint Cloud's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 52°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 55°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 61°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 96°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 79°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°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 Saint Cloud
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 Saint Cloud
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 protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 2 | Oct 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Jan 29 | Oct 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jan 24 | Oct 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 26 | Oct 18 | ✓ 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 28 | Jan 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 17 | Jan 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 31 | Jan 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 28 | Jan 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Saint Cloud
Why this matters: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Saint Cloud's 7.6 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: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (21 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Saint Cloud
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Saint Cloud gets 53" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
29,256 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 58.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,256 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 Saint Cloud
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Saint Cloud.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 1 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Mar 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 1 | — | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 21 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – May 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 5 – Feb 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 1 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Mar 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 16 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 9 – May 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Oct 1 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Jul 16 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jul 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – May 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – May 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | May 14 – Jul 16 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jul 16 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – May 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Jan 29 – Feb 26 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Mar 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 1 | — | Oct 25 | Jan 29 – Feb 19 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 9 – May 21 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 2 – May 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – May 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Apr 2 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Oct 1 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 1 | — | Oct 25 | Feb 12 – Mar 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 22 | Oct 25 | Mar 5 – Apr 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – May 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jan 29 | — | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Jul 30 – Jan 14 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 11 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 7 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 25 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – May 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Saint Cloud
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Saint Cloud.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Aug 20 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – May 21 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 5 | — | May 7 – Feb 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Saint Cloud
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Saint Cloud.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Apr 16 – Jul 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 28 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 30 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Feb 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – May 14 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 28 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 16 – Jul 16 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 25 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Oct 25 | Mar 19 – May 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – Sep 10 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 11 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 28 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Saint Cloud
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Saint Cloud.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 11 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 12 – Aug 27 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 13 | Dec 11 | Sep 27 | Feb 5 – May 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 13 | — | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 13 | Dec 11 | Sep 13 | Jan 22 – Apr 30 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Dec 25 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Dec 25 | Dec 11 | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 11 | — | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Nov 27 | Nov 13 | Nov 13 | — | Jan 1 – Feb 19 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 13 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 18 | Dec 25 | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 13 | — | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Nov 27 | — | Dec 18 | — | Feb 26 – Sep 10 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 25 | Jan 3 – Mar 14 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 12 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Dec 25 | Dec 11 | Dec 11 | — | Feb 5 – Sep 3 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 11 | Sep 13 | Jan 22 – Apr 2 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Nov 27 | — | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Dec 25 | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | — | Feb 5 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Nov 8 | Nov 8 – Dec 6 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Nov 27 | — | Dec 25 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Nov 27 | — | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 11 | — | Dec 25 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 13 | Dec 11 | Sep 13 | Feb 12 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 1 | Dec 11 | Dec 11 | — | Mar 5 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 13 | Dec 11 | Sep 27 | Jan 8 – Apr 2 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 13 | — | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Dec 25 | Dec 11 | Dec 11 | — | Feb 19 – Sep 3 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Saint Cloud
ZIP Codes in Saint Cloud
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 Osceola County.
Your Osceola County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Osceola 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