St. Johns County, FL — Planting Guide
St. Johns County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 9 and the first fall frost is December 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 297 days.
At an elevation of 57 ft, St. Johns County receives approximately 51.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 99°F with winter lows around 56°F. The predominant soil type is Sand.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 54 days year to year — ranging from January 16 in warm years to March 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.07 days per decade. St. Johns County scores 58/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 9
🍂 First Frost
December 2
📅 Growing Season
297 days
⛰️ Elevation
57 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
51.1 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Mar | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 7 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.1 in | 19 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.6 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.9 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.2 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.
St. Johns County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.9-6.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 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 11 | Dec 23 | 287 days |
| Cautious | Feb 20 | Dec 15 | 298 days |
| Average year | Feb 9 | Dec 2 | 296 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 25 | Nov 28 | 307 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 16 | Nov 18 | 306 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±54 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 1.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. Johns County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in St. Johns 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 St. Johns County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. Johns 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 St. Johns County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. Johns County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Johns 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 St. Johns County FL" or "garden center St. Johns 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 St. Johns County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Johns 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 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 | 10.3 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr 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 | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 93°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 96°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 90°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 68°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 58°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 St. Johns County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | Moderate | 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 St. Johns County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 13 | Sep 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 11 | Sep 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 13 | Sep 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 9 | Sep 30 | ✓ 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 27 | Nov 11 | — | 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 | Sep 30 | Jan 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 7 | Jan 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 9 | Jan 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 10 | Jan 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (32 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
25,518 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
Feb, 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 51.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,518 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in St. Johns County
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH 4.9–6.1 · Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
297-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in St. Johns County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Johns County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 – Apr 13 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 16 | — | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – May 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 19 | — | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – May 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – May 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 – Mar 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 19 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 – Apr 13 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Oct 19 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Aug 3 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 16 | — | May 18 – Jun 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – Apr 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 11 – Jul 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – May 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 – Mar 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 30 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – Apr 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 19 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 19 | — | Feb 16 – Mar 9 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 19 | — | Apr 13 – May 18 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 19 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 16 | — | May 11 – Jul 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 16 – Apr 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Oct 19 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 19 | — | Mar 2 – Apr 6 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Aug 17 – Dec 14 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 29 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 25 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in St. Johns County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Johns County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Sep 7 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in St. Johns County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Johns County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | May 4 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 30 – May 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 16 | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 16 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 16 | May 18 – Oct 19 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | May 4 – Aug 3 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 16 | May 11 – Sep 28 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 16 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 12 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Mar 16 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 29 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 16 | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for St. Johns County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in St. Johns County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is St. Johns County, FL?
St. Johns County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in St. Johns County, FL?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in St. Johns County falls around February 9. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 16 and March 11 — a 54-day window of variability. Use March 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in St. Johns County, FL?
The median first fall frost in St. Johns County arrives around December 2. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 18; in mild years as late as December 23. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in St. Johns County?
St. Johns County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 297 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 1.07 days per decade.
What is the soil like in St. Johns County for gardening?
St. Johns County has predominantly Sand soil with a pH range of 4.9–6.1 and Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in St. Johns County?
St. Johns County has commercial agriculture that includes Citrus, Sugarcane, Tomatoes, Cattle, Strawberries. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is St. Johns County a good location for home gardening?
St. Johns County scores 58/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help St. Johns County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
