Florida is divided into two main climate zones: a humid tropical climate in the south and a humid subtropical climate in the northwest parts of the state. Summers in Florida are usually hot and humid, while winters are mild, with occasional cool spells.
Florida receives a high amount of rainfall, averaging up to 50 inches per year, which is more than in most parts of the United States. The state also gets about 221 sunny days annually. Many experienced gardeners harvest twice, once in the spring and again in late fall.
Understanding the climate characteristics of your hardiness zone is crucial to avoid frustration in your gardening endeavors.
- What are Plant Hardiness Zones?
- Creating a Microclimate in Your Garden
- Dates of Last Frost in USDA Zone 8b and 9a/b in Florida
- What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in December, January and February
- What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in March, April and May
- What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in June, July and August
- What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in September, October and November
- Dates of Last Frosts in USDA Zone 10a/b and 11a in Florida
- What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in December, January and February
- What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in March, April and May
- What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in June, July and August
- What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in September, October and November
What are Plant Hardiness Zones?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed the Plant Hardiness Zone Map, using weather data collected from 1976 to 2005 over periods ranging from 50 to 100 years. Based on this data, the country was divided into zones. Each zone corresponds to the average annual minimum temperature in 10-degree Fahrenheit increments.
Each hardiness zone is further divided into two subzones, labeled “a” and “b,” which differ by 5 degrees.
What Plant Hardiness Zones Reveal
Plant hardiness zones are essential for understanding the timing of planting seasons in your region. These zones help determine:
- Your region’s temperature in the winter.
- When the gardening season starts and ends in your area.
For instance, zones 5, 6, and 7 typically experience frost, while zone 10b never gets cold enough to kill plants. On average, Florida enjoys the mildest winters in the continental United States. Average minimum temperatures range from 65 °F (18 °C) in Key West to nearly 41 °F (5 °C) in Tallahassee. This means frost is virtually nonexistent in this zone.
Understanding these zones can greatly enhance your gardening success. It allows you to choose plants that thrive in your specific climate conditions.
Factors Not Covered by Plant Hardiness Zones
While plant hardiness zones help determine when it’s too cold to plant, they don’t provide all the information necessary for successful gardening. In addition to the minimum temperatures in a region, these zones don’t consider several other critical factors.
Maximum Heat Levels in Your Area
Some plants struggle with extreme heat and may stop growing altogether. This is why growing beets, peas, cabbage, and certain herbs in the summer can be difficult in Florida. Prolonged high temperatures can significantly impact both the yield and the overall life cycle of plants. For most annual crops, the ideal temperature range is between 68°F (20°C) and 95°F (35°C).
Plants can cool themselves through evaporation and warm themselves through radiation. Every plant aims to reach its optimal temperature, making it essential to balance air temperature, humidity, and light levels effectively.
Humidity Levels in Your Region
Dry, hot air harms plants by disrupting their respiration process and slowing photosynthesis. Even with watering, the roots can’t always replace the lost moisture quickly enough. Overwatering can be just as dangerous, introducing more water than heat-stressed plants can handle. This leads to root suffocation and rot, which causes the plant to wilt and die.
Excessive humidity can also be problematic. Garden plants may succumb to rot, mold, fungal diseases, and harmful insects in hot and humid conditions.
For most mature plants, the ideal humidity level is between 60% and 70%. Some tropical plants are adapted to humidity levels of up to 90%. On the other hand, many succulents, such as cacti, thrive with only about 10% humidity. Generally, plants with thicker leaves are better at tolerating lower humidity levels.
Average Precipitation in Your Area
Different types of precipitation have different effects on plant growth in your region. Light rain showers gently moisten the soil, promoting quick plant growth. Without adequate soil moisture, plants cannot thrive and develop properly.
Heavy rains and strong winds can create rushing streams of water, damaging leaves and fruits in your garden. Additionally, excessive moisture can lead to plant diseases and death.
Soil Quality in Your Area
Most annual plants thrive in nutrient-rich soil. However, many gardeners in Florida face the challenge of sandy soil. This fine, gray soil is called Myakka (pronounced My-yakah) and covers most of the state. Soil properties can vary significantly across different regions of Florida. To better understand how your soil type affects plant growth, see Best Soil Types for Gardening Success in Every U.S. Backyard.
- Northern and Central Florida. Typically have very sandy soils.
- Panhandle Region. The soil may contain a significant amount of clay, which compacts easily and retains more moisture.
- Southern Everglades. The soil in this area is peat-based and highly fertile. Residents may not need to amend their soil.
- Far Southern Florida. Soils have a high pH due to the influence of limestone bedrock and proximity to groundwater.
For the best results in any soil type, always choose plants that are well-suited to your garden plot’s specific conditions. You can also enrich sandy or clay soils naturally by growing green manure cover crops.
Garden Landscape
Your garden landscape can significantly influence plant growth. Many tall trees might provide excellent shade, while low shrubs only allow bright sunlight. Your land may be on a hillside (resulting in more rainfall and wind) or in a low-lying area (leading to cooler mornings and nights). Even within USDA Hardiness Zone 10, these microclimatic factors can vary greatly and should be considered when planning your garden.
Creating a Microclimate in Your Garden
Gardening in Florida can be pretty challenging. Some novice gardeners may feel it’s impossible to grow anything due to the intense heat, high humidity, and sandy soils. However, creating a microclimate in your garden can help you successfully cultivate plants that might not typically thrive in your zone’s climate.
Shade trees play a vital role in establishing your microclimate. For instance, planting trees like the Regal Prince Oak or Rainbow Eucalyptus can provide much-needed shade. Other factors that can help create your garden’s microclimate include irrigation systems, greenhouses, and shade nets. You can improve soil fertility through container gardening or by using raised beds.
Start Small
To avoid getting overwhelmed, begin by planting just one or two types of plants. Each plant will likely have different soil, watering, and care requirements. They may grow at different rates and could face various pests or diseases.
At first, you might feel bombarded with information. However, as you gain experience, you’ll develop an intuitive understanding of when and how much to water your plants and how to guarantee their health.
Once you feel more confident and skilled, you can expand your garden or create new beds in different areas.
Dates of Last Frost in USDA Zone 8b and 9a/b in Florida
| Location | Average Last Frost Dates | Hardiness Zone |
| Fort Walton Beach | Mar. 11 – Mar. 20 | 8b |
| Tallahassee | Apr. 1 – Apr. 10 | 8b |
| Jacksonville | Feb. 21 – Feb. 29 | 8b, 9a |
| Daytona Beach | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9a/9b |
| Pensacola | Mar. 11 – Mar. 20 | 9a |
| Ocala | Mar. 1 – Mar. 10 | 9a |
| Panama City Beach | Mar. 11 – Mar. 20 | 9a |
| Gainesville | Mar. 11 – Mar. 20 | 9a |
| Palm Coast | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9a/9b |
| New Smyrna Beach | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9b |
| Orlando | Feb. 1 – Feb. 10 | 9b |
| Daytona Beach | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9a/9b |
| Clearwater | Jan 6 – Jan 26 | 9b/10a |
| Kissimmee | Feb. 1 – Feb. 10 | 9b |
| North Port | Jan. 21 – Jan. 31 | 9b/10a |
| Plant City | Feb. 21 – Feb. 29 | 9b |
| Tampa | Frost Rare | 9b/10a |
| Port St. Lucie | Frost Rare | 9b/10a |
| Sarasota | Jan. 21 – Jan. 31 | 9b/10a |
| Lakeland | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9b |
| Winter Park | Feb. 1 – Feb. 10 | 9b |
| Haines City | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9b |
| Bradenton | Frost Rare | 9b/10a |
| Palm Coast | Feb. 11 – Feb. 20 | 9a/9b |
| Oviedo | Feb. 1 – Feb. 10 | 9b |
Is your city not listed above? If not, see the map with the last frost dates for the state of Florida.
Climate Characteristics of Zone 8b
In Zone 8, the growing season spans about 240 days, providing a generous timeframe for cultivation. The annual minimum temperature typically hits 15°F (-10°C), making it suitable for a diverse collection of plants.
Climate Characteristics of Zone 9a/b
Zone 9 features relatively low temperatures that rarely fall below freezing. Winter minimum temperatures in this zone range from 20 to 30°F (-7 – -1°C).
This zone also has long, hot summers and a longer growing season lasting from February to December. With its sunny and warm climate, Zone 9 is ideal for winter gardening and maintaining various heat-tolerant plants throughout the summer.
Vegetables, flowering shrubs, herbs, as well as citrus and fruit trees flourish in Zone 9. However, plants suited for cooler seasons, such as many bulbous plants, certain fruit trees, root vegetables, and nut trees, often struggle with the heat in this region.
What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in December, January and February
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Irish potatoes | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Broccoli | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Kale | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Carrots | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Lettuce | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Radishes | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Tomatoes | seeds indoors | Vegetables |
| Peppers | seeds indoors | Vegetables |
| Spinach | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Peas | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Chard | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Beet | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Leek | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cabbage | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cilantro | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Punch | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting | Herbs |
| Dill | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Pansy | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Viola | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Petunia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Snapdragon | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dianthus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dusty miller | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Crinum | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Agapanthus | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Gloriosa lily | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Dahlia | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Camellias | seedlings | Camellias |
What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in March, April and May
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Tomatoes | direct planting/seedlings | Vegetables |
| Peppers | direct planting/seedlings | Vegetables |
| Squash | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Corn | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cilantro | direct planting | Herbs |
| Punch | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting | Herbs |
| Basil | direct planting | Herbs |
| Dill | direct planting | Herbs |
| Rosemary | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Angelonia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Salvia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Zinnia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Caladiums | seedlings | Plant tropicals |
| Calla lilies | seedlings | Plant tropicals |
| Pink muhly grass | direct planting | Perennial grasses |
What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in June, July and August
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Pumpkin | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Lima beans | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Okra | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Basil | direct planting | Herbs |
| Rosemary | direct planting | Herbs |
| Ginger | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Celosia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Hot pink portulaca | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Red-and-green coleus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Gaillardia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Lantana | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Calibrachoa | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Pentas | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Caladiums | seedlings | Perennials |
| Black-eyed Susan | seedlings | Perennials |
| Palms | seedlings | Plant tropicals |
What to Plant in Zones 8b and 9a/b in September, October and November
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Strawberries | seedlings | Berries |
| Zucchini | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Carrots | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Eggplants | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Radishes | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Tomatoes | seedlings | Vegetables |
| Peppers | seedlings / direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cilantro | direct planting | Herbs |
| Punch | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting | Herbs |
| Dill | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Ageratum | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Zinnia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Begonias | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Flowering kale | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Mums | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Trumpet vine | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Salvia | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Bee balm | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Zebra Heliconia | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Monarchs | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Gulf Fritillary | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Amaryllis blooms | direct planting | Bulbs |
Dates of Last Frosts in USDA Zone 10a/b and 11a in Florida
| Location | Average Last Frost Dates | Hardiness Zone |
| Naples | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Cape Coral | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Clearwater | Minimum Frost | 9b/10a |
| Marco Island | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| North Port | Jan. 21 – Jan. 31 | 9b/10a |
| Fort Pierce | Jan. 21 – Jan. 31 | 10a |
| Tampa | Minimum Frost | 9b/10a |
| West Palm Beach | Minimum Frost | 10a/b |
| Sarasota | Jan. 21 – Jan. 31 | 9b/10a |
| Fort Myers | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Palm Beach | Minimum Frost | 10a/b |
| Bradenton | Minimum Frost | 9b/10a |
| Bonita Springs | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Fort Lauderdale | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Florida City | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Deerfield Beach | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Coral Gables | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Boca Raton | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Cooper City | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Delray Beach | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| Parkland | Minimum Frost | 10a |
| West Palm Beach | Minimum Frost | 10a/b |
| Miami | No Frost | 10b/11a |
| Hialeah | Minimum Frost | 10b |
| Pembroke Pines | Minimum Frost | 10b |
| Palm Beach | No Frost | 10a/b |
| Islamorada | No Frost | 11a |
| Miami Beach | No Frost | 11a |
Climate Characteristics of Zone 10a/b
In Zone 10, winters are relatively mild, allowing for year-round gardening. The first frosts typically occur around mid-December, but it passes quickly. Average minimum temperatures in Zone 10 range from 35 to 40°F (1-5°C).
Be cautious with heat-sensitive plants. Proper heat management is essential if you want to grow vegetables or herbs in this zone. Shade cloths, mulching, and proper watering techniques are excellent ways to help your plants thrive.
Climate Characteristics of Zone 11a
Zone 11 has consistently mild winters with no frost. The primary challenge for gardeners here is the intense summer heat, which can be fatal to many plants. To prevent this, ensure your plants receive adequate shade, frequent watering (without over-watering to avoid root rot), and mulching to retain moisture.
What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a December, January and February
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Irish potatoes | direct planting (January) | Vegetables |
| Broccoli | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Kale | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Carrots | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Lettuce | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Radishes | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Tomatoes | seeds indoors | Vegetables |
| Peppers | seeds indoors | Vegetables |
| Spinach | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Peas | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Chard | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Beet | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Leek | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cabbage | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Brussels sprouts | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Eggplant | seeds indoors | Vegetables |
| Collards | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Turnips | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cucumbers | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cilantro | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Punch | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting | Herbs |
| Dill | direct planting | Herbs |
| Tarragon | direct planting | Herbs |
| Mints | direct planting | Herbs |
| Fennel | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Begonia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Browallia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Lobelia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dianthus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dusty miller | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Nicotiana | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Petunia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Pansy | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Verbena | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dianthus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Strawflower | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Clivia | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Lily | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Crinum | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Agapanthus | direct planting | Bulbs |
What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in March, April and May
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Cantaloupe | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Watermelon | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Swiss chard | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Squashes | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Radish | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Okra | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Endive | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Celery sweet corn | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Carrots | direct planting (March) | Vegetables |
| Basil | direct planting | Herbs |
| Mexican tarragon | direct planting | Herbs |
| Ginger | direct planting | Herbs |
| Cumin | direct planting | Herbs |
| Summer savory | direct planting | Herbs |
| Rosemary | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting (March) | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Crossandra | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Wax begonia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Ornamental pepper | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Torenia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Vinca | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Coleus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Zinnia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Melampodium | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Gazania | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Gladiola | direct planting | Bulbs |
What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in June, July and August
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Boniato | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Calabaza | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Chayote | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Eggplant | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Okra | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Peppers | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Pumpkin | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Squashes | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Tomatoes | direct planting (August) | Vegetables |
| Basil | direct planting | Herbs |
| Rosemary | direct planting | Herbs |
| Ginger | direct planting | Herbs |
| Mexican tarragon | direct planting | Herbs |
| Ginger | direct planting | Herbs |
| Cumin | direct planting | Herbs |
| Summer savory | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Celosia | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Mums | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Vinca | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Portulaca | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Butterfly lily | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Spider lily | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Walking iris | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Gladiolus | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Palms | seedlings | Plant tropicals |
What to Plant in Zones 10a/b and 11a in September, October and November
Edible Plants
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Strawberries | seedlings | Berries |
| Zucchini | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Carrots | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Eggplants | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Radishes | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Tomatoes | seedlings | Vegetables |
| Peppers | seedlings / direct planting | Vegetables |
| Peas | direct planting | Vegetables |
| Cilantro | direct planting | Herbs |
| Punch | direct planting | Herbs |
| Arugula | direct planting | Herbs |
| Dill | direct planting | Herbs |
| Basil | direct planting | Herbs |
| Ginger | direct planting | Herbs |
| Mexican tarragon | direct planting | Herbs |
Flowers
| Plant | Planting method | Type of Plant |
| Scarlet sage | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Pansy | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Cape daisy | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Strawflower | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Dianthus | seedlings | Annuals/Bedding plants |
| Alyssum | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Impatiens | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Wax begonia | seedlings | Plants for hummingbirds |
| Celosia | seedlings | Plants for migrating butterflies |
| Nasturtium | seedlings | Plants for migrating butterflies |
| Gladiolus | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Agapanthus | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Rain lily | direct planting | Bulbs |
| Amaryllis | direct planting (November) | Bulbs |
| Crinum | direct planting (November) | Bulbs |
| Elephant’s ear | direct planting (November) | Bulbs |
Let Your Garden Teach You
To make the most of Florida’s year round growing potential, do not rely only on planting calendars and hardiness zones. Pay close attention to your own yard, including how much sun it gets, how water drains, where the wind reaches, and what kind of soil you have. Experiment with different plants and observe how they respond. Over time, you will build a personal list of crops that truly thrive in your space. That is the real key to successful and low stress gardening in Florida.
