Quick planting window
| Start indoors | December to January |
|---|---|
| Transplant | February to March |
| Sow seeds | Usually not recommended for this crop in a short-season garden |
| Estimated harvest | May |
| Risk | Medium risk |
Month calendar
Scan the year by month to see seed starting, sowing, transplanting, and harvest timing.
Tomato is frost sensitive. Wait until the conservative transplant or sowing window for Florida.
Next: ZIP code personalization
This is a state-level planning window based on typical frost timing and crop rules. Use local Extension guidance or a ZIP code frost-date tool before planting.
Planning notes
Covered crops
15
Covered states
Florida
Frost window
January to February / December to January
North, Central, and South Florida can differ by months; use local Extension timing before planting.
Tomato growing notes
The calendar window is only the first step. These growing details affect survival, plant vigor, and harvest quality.
Sun
Full sun, ideally 6-8+ hours.
Soil
Rich, well-drained soil with compost.
Spacing
18-24 inches for compact types; 24-36 inches for vigorous vines.
Container
Use a 5+ gallon container for patio types; larger is better.
Watering
Water deeply and consistently; avoid wetting leaves late in the day.
Common mistake
Transplanting before nights are warm enough.
Beginner tip
Harden seedlings off for 7-10 days before planting outside.
Month window table
| Crop | Spring transplant / sow | Spring harvest | Fall transplant / sow | Fall harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | February to March | May | September to October | November to December |
| Cucumber | February to March | April to May | September to October | November to December |
| Pepper | February to March | May to June | August to September | November to December |
| Lettuce | January to February | February to March | October to November | December to January |
| Carrot | January to February | March to April | October to November | December to January |
| Spinach | December to January | February to March | October to November | December |
| Green Bean | February to March | April to May | October to November | November to December |
| Zucchini | February to March | April to May | September to October | November to December |
| Potato | January to February | April to May | September to October | December to January |
| Broccoli | January to February | March to April | September to October | December |
| Kale | January to February | March to April | October to November | November to December |
| Onion | January to February | April to May | September to October | December to January |
| Garlic | September to October | May to June | November to December | July |
| Corn | February to March | May to June | September to October | December to January |
| Radish | January to February | February to March | November to December | December |
Sources and limits
This page uses Florida state-level frost windows, USDA zone ranges, and crop rules for planning. It does not replace local Extension or county-level guidance.
FAQ
When should I start spring planting in Florida?
Use the last frost window, usually January to February, as the planning anchor. Hardy crops can start earlier; frost-sensitive crops should wait for warmer soil and nights.
When should I plan fall planting in Florida?
Count backward from the first frost window, usually December to January. Long-season and frost-sensitive crops need more lead time.
Which vegetables are easiest in Florida?
Start with easier crops such as cucumber, lettuce, spinach, green bean, zucchini. The best choice still depends on season and local conditions.
How should I handle summer heat in Florida?
Summer heat is a major planning factor. Cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, and broccoli usually do better in early spring or fall.
Can I grow a fall garden in Florida?
Yes. Use December to January as the cutoff anchor and leave buffer time for germination, transplant shock, and maturity.
Do local differences matter?
North, Central, and South Florida can differ by months; use local Extension timing before planting.
Does this replace local Extension guidance?
No. Use this as a first-pass planning calendar, then confirm with local Extension, county guidance, or a ZIP-code frost-date tool before planting.