When to plant Fennel (herb) in Sharpes, FL
Sharpes sits in USDA Zone 10a. Plant Fennel (herb) between December 29 (after last frost on January 19) and January 19. A second sowing from October 25 to November 8 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Fennel (herb) in Sharpes, FL
Herb fennel is grown for its aromatic leaves, stalks, and seeds rather than a bulb. It has a strong anise flavor and its flowers attract beneficial insects.
Sharpes, Florida is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is January 19 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 335 days.
At an elevation of 491 feet, Brevard County receives approximately 52.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Fennel (herb) may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Fennel (herb) will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Fennel (herb) root diseases.
Sharpes Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.8-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Fennel (herb)
Fennel (herb) needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Fennel (herb) Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 6.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 7.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.9" | 2.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Jan–Dec in Brevard County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Fennel (herb) Planting Timeline — Sharpes, FL
Fennel (herb) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | December 22 | Dec 22 – Jan 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | January 12 | Jan 12 – Jan 26 |
| Direct Sow | December 29 | Dec 29 – Jan 19 |
| Harvest | March 16 | Mar 16 – May 25 |
| Fall Sowing | October 25 | Oct 25 – Nov 8 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| February | — |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| December | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 10a
📆 Growing Season
335 days in Brevard County
Growing Tips for Sharpes
Direct sow in spring or fall. Unlike Florence fennel, herb fennel does not form a bulb. Harvest fronds as needed and seeds when they turn brown. Self-sows readily.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Fennel (herb) in Other Locations
When should I plant Fennel (herb) in Sharpes, FL?
In Sharpes, FL, plant Fennel (herb) after the last frost (around January 19) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Sharpes, FL for Fennel (herb)?
Sharpes sits in USDA Zone 10a. Fennel (herb) grows reliably in zones 4a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Fennel (herb) grow in Sharpes's climate?
Yes — Fennel (herb) grows well in Sharpes's temperate climate. Sharpes averages a 336-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 19 and first frost around December 20.
Your Brevard County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Brevard 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.