Florida garden with raised beds in sunshine

Learn to grow

Florida Growing Guides

Practical advice for growing native and heirloom seeds in Florida's heat, humidity, and unique seasons — from someone who actually grows here.

Florida is different. Your growing advice should be.

Most gardening guides are written for USDA zones 5–7 — cool summers, cold winters, and predictable frost dates. Florida doesn't work that way. We have two main growing seasons, brutal summer heat, sandy soils, and afternoon thunderstorms that can drown seedlings overnight. These guides are written specifically for Florida gardeners.

Quick tip

In Florida, the most important gardening decision you make is timing. Plant too late in spring and summer heat kills your cool-season crops. Plant too early in fall and you're still fighting summer. Get the timing right and everything else gets easier.

BasicsFeatured

Understanding Florida's Two Growing Seasons

Florida has a cool season (Oct–Apr) and a warm season (May–Sep). Learn which crops thrive in each and how to plan your garden calendar.

5 min readRead

BasicsFeatured

Starting Seeds in Florida's Heat

Germinating seeds when it's 90°F outside requires different techniques than most guides describe. Here's what actually works.

6 min readRead

Soil

Florida Soil: Working With Sand

Most of Florida sits on sandy, nutrient-poor soil. Learn how to amend it, build organic matter, and grow productively without fighting your soil.

7 min readRead

VegetablesFeatured

Growing Tomatoes in Florida

Tomatoes are tricky in Florida — too hot in summer, too cold in winter. Learn the timing, varieties, and tricks that make Florida tomatoes possible.

8 min readRead

Native Plants

Native Plants That Support Florida Pollinators

Florida has over 300 native bee species. These native plants feed them — and most are easy to grow from seed.

6 min readRead

Herbs

Growing Herbs Year-Round in Florida

Some herbs love Florida's heat; others need the cool season. This guide covers which herbs to grow when, and how to keep them productive.

5 min readRead

Seed Saving

Seed Saving Basics for Florida Gardeners

Open-pollinated seeds can be saved year after year. Learn how to harvest, dry, and store seeds from your best Florida-adapted plants.

7 min readRead

Basics

Watering Your Florida Garden

Florida gets 50+ inches of rain a year — but rarely when you need it. Learn how to water efficiently through dry spells and avoid overwatering during the rainy season.

5 min readRead