When to Plant in Orlando, FL

Orlando is slightly more inland than Tampa and receives the occasional light frost in December and January — typically one or two events per year. Otherwise it shares the classic Central Florida growing calendar where the fall and winter dry season is prime growing time.

The subtropical climate means two tomato seasons (fall and spring), year-round herb production, and summer heat that limits you to okra, sweet potatoes, and heat-tolerant crops. Afternoon thunderstorms from June through September bring both rain and plant disease pressure.

FAQ

When is the last frost date in Orlando, FL?

Orlando's average last frost date is around January 26. Frost is possible in December and January, but hard freezes are rare.

What grows best in Orlando?

Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, squash, and all cool-season greens perform excellently in Orlando's fall and winter growing season. Summer is reserved for heat-tolerant crops.

When do I plant tomatoes in Orlando?

Plant fall tomatoes in August–September for a November–January harvest. Plant spring tomatoes in January–February for an April–May harvest. Avoid mid-summer.

How do I handle Orlando's summer heat?

Focus on okra, sweet potatoes, southern peas, and Malabar spinach in summer. Mulch heavily, water in the morning, and expect lower yields than the cool season.

How does Plan My Garden help Orlando gardeners?

Enter your Orlando zip code and we'll generate exact planting dates for all your crops — tuned to Central Florida's subtropical growing calendar.

Frost dates for Orlando ZIP codes

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