When to Plant in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville sits in North Florida — the most temperate part of the state — where you actually get a light frost a few times each winter. Zone 9a means last frost dates around mid-February, and the growing season runs from late February through November with a summer slowdown.

Unlike Central and South Florida, Jacksonville gardeners can grow cool-season crops in a genuine winter garden from October through February, then transition to warm-season crops in spring. Summer heat and humidity are intense, but the fall growing season from August through November is outstanding.

This month in Jacksonville: October 2026

Jacksonville's first frost usually doesn't come until around December 24, and close to the river and the beaches many years it never does. October is prime planting time.

Sow lettuce, spinach, carrots, radishes, and beets directly, and set out broccoli, cabbage, kale, and collard transplants. A bed planted this month will be picking from Thanksgiving on.

The heat breaks slowly here, so water new seedlings every morning until they're up, and shade fresh transplants for a few days if the afternoons are still hot. Keep the peppers and okra going as long as they're producing; they often have one more good run before it cools.

Updated October 8, 2026

FAQ

When is the last frost date in Jacksonville, FL?

Jacksonville's average last frost date is around February 12. Unlike Central and South Florida, Jacksonville does get regular light frosts in December and January.

What vegetables grow best in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville's best growing seasons are fall through spring. Cool-season crops like broccoli, kale, and lettuce excel in winter. Tomatoes, peppers, and squash do well in spring (Feb–May) and fall (Aug–Oct).

When should I plant tomatoes in Jacksonville?

Plant spring tomatoes in February–March after the last frost. Plant fall tomatoes in August for a November–December harvest. Avoid planting in May–July when summer heat stops fruit set.

Is Jacksonville good for fall gardening?

Fall is actually one of Jacksonville's best growing seasons. Plant broccoli, kale, lettuce, carrots, and spinach in September–October for harvests through January.

How does Plan My Garden help Jacksonville gardeners?

Enter your Jacksonville zip code and we'll calculate your exact planting windows, accounting for North Florida's unique growing calendar with its true winter cool-season growing season.