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When to plant Salsify in Sumatra, FL

Plant Salsify in Sumatra, when soil hits 50°F — usually February 11. Continue planting through March 4 for the spring crop. A second sowing from October 1 to October 15 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Salsify in Sumatra, FL

Salsify is a root vegetable with a subtle oyster-like flavor, earning it the nickname "oyster plant." It produces long, slender, cream-colored roots.

Sumatra, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 4 and the first fall frost is November 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 267 days.

At an elevation of 152 feet, Liberty County receives approximately 54.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 94°F, providing good warmth for Salsify during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Salsify will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Salsify root diseases.

Sumatra, FL (Zone 9a) Long season
267 days
Last Spring Frost March 4
267 growing days
First Fall Frost November 26

Sumatra Soil Profile

Soil Type

Sand

Soil pH

4.9-6.1

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Salsify

Salsify needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Salsify Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 2.3" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 2.5" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Mar 4.3" 3.6" 0.7" 💧 Light watering
Apr 4.3" 2.7" 1.6" 💧 Light watering
May 4.3" 3.5" 0.8" 💧 Light watering
Jun 4.3" 8" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Jul 4.3" 8" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Aug 4.3" 7.6" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Sep 4.3" 7.9" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Oct 4.3" 4.5" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Nov 4.3" 2" 2.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Dec 2.3" 0" ❄️ Dormant

Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Liberty County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Salsify Planting Timeline — Sumatra, FL

Salsify Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Direct Sow February 11 Feb 11 – Mar 4
Harvest May 27 May 27 – Jul 8
Fall Sowing October 1 Oct 1 – Oct 15

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February Direct Sow
March Direct Sow
April
May Harvest
June Harvest
July Harvest
August
September
October Fall Sowing
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

100–130 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9a

📆 Growing Season

267 days in Liberty County

Growing Tips for Sumatra

Direct sow in spring in deeply worked, stone-free soil. Use fresh seed only as viability drops quickly. Harvest in late fall after frost for best flavor.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Salsify in Sumatra, FL?

In Sumatra, FL, plant Salsify after the last frost (around March 4) and before the first frost (around November 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Sumatra, FL for Salsify?

Sumatra sits in USDA Zone 9a. Salsify grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Salsify grow in Sumatra's climate?

Yes — Salsify grows well in Sumatra's temperate climate. Sumatra averages a 267-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 4 and first frost around November 26.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Liberty County, FL. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.