When to Plant Warm-Season Vegetables in Central Florida
The ideal planting date for warm-season vegetable crops in Central Florida is September 15. Gardeners in North Florida can generally plant about two weeks earlier, while South Florida gardeners should wait until around October 1.
Start Tomato, Pepper, and Eggplant Seeds Six Weeks Before Planting
Approximately six weeks before your target planting date, start tomato, pepper, and eggplant seeds indoors or in a protected environment. Starting seeds early allows transplants to develop healthy root systems before being moved into the garden. Protect seedlings from heavy rainfall, which can damage or wash out young plants.
Start Warm-Season Seedlings Four Weeks Before Planting
Four weeks before September 15, sow seeds in flats for:
- Arugula
- Bok choy
- Broccoli
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Collards
- Swiss chard
Many flowers and herbs can also be started at this time, including marigolds, zinnias, cilantro, dill, and basil.
Start Cucumbers and Squash Ten Days Before Planting
Cucumbers, zucchini, and yellow squash grow quickly and can be started in small pots about ten days before planting. However, many gardeners choose to direct sow these crops instead since they establish rapidly in warm soils.
What to Plant in September in Central Florida
On or around September 15, directly sow:
- Arugula
- Bush beans
- Pole beans
- Cucumbers
- Yellow squash
- Zucchini
- Radishes
Transplant tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, squash and other seedlings that have developed true leaves. Consider keeping a few extra seedlings on hand in case pests, wildlife, or disease damage newly planted crops.
When to Plant Cool-Season Vegetables in Central Florida
The target planting date for cool-season vegetables in Central Florida is October 15. North Florida gardeners can generally plant about two weeks earlier, while South Florida gardeners should plant about two weeks later.
Start Cool-Season Transplants Four Weeks Ahead
Four weeks before planting, start seeds in flats for:
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Collards
- Cabbage
- Kohlrabi
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Bok choy
- Mizuna
- Beets
- Swiss chard
- Endive
Starting these crops in advance allows seedlings to establish before transplanting into the garden.
What to Plant in October in Central Florida
On or after October 15, transplant cool-season seedlings and direct sow:
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Green beans
- Spinach
- Mustard
- Sweet peas
If warm-season vegetables are still producing, maintain transplants in larger containers until garden space becomes available. Succession planting of crops such as radishes and green beans can help provide continuous harvests throughout the season.
When to Plant Onions in Central Florida
Plant onion sets during the last week of November in Central Florida for best results. Choose short-day varieties of onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What month should I start a fall vegetable garden in Florida?
Most Central Florida gardeners begin preparing for fall vegetable gardening in August by starting seeds indoors and planting warm-season crops in mid-September.
What vegetables grow best in a Florida fall garden?
Popular fall crops include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, beans, cucumbers, lettuce, kale, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, beets, and radishes.
When should I plant cool-season vegetables in Central Florida?
The recommended planting date for cool-season vegetables is October 15, with seed starting occurring approximately four weeks earlier.
Additional Resources
For detailed planting dates, recommended varieties, and crop information, consult the UF/IFAS EDIS publication Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide and the Gardening Solutions edible gardening infographics.
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