One of the many perks of living in Central Florida is the long growing season and the opportunity to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce nearly year-round. If you’ve recently moved into a new home or are just getting started with your garden, late spring and early summer is the perfect time to dig in—literally!
As a local realtor and proud Florida native, I love helping clients not only find the perfect home, but also settle in and enjoy all that our climate has to offer. If you’re wondering what vegetables are safe to plant in your Central Florida garden during these warmer months, here’s a handy guide to get you started.
Warm-Weather Veggies That Thrive in Central Florida
Central Florida’s climate shifts quickly from mild to hot, so your garden should be filled with plants that love heat and humidity. Here are some of the best vegetables to plant in late spring (May) and early summer (June–early July):
1. Sweet Potatoes
- Planting Time: May to early July
- These thrive in the heat and do well in Florida’s sandy soil. Just be sure to give them room to spread out.
2. Okra
- Planting Time: March through August
- Okra loves hot weather and grows quickly. Pick pods when they’re young and tender.
3. Southern Peas (Black-eyed peas, Cowpeas)
- Planting Time: March through August
- A Southern favorite that’s well-suited to our summer heat. These are low-maintenance and great for improving soil health.
4. Eggplant
- Planting Time: February through March, again in July
- While early spring is ideal, you can start a second crop in late summer. For now, focus on tending to young plants or starting seedlings indoors for transplant later.
5. Peppers (Bell, Banana, Hot Peppers)
- Planting Time: February through March, again in July
- Like eggplants, peppers do better if planted earlier in the season, but you can still grow them from starter plants and continue harvesting into summer.
6. Seminole Pumpkin
- Planting Time: March through August
- A Florida-native variety that’s resistant to pests and disease. It’s ideal for our climate and a great option if you’re new to gardening.
7. Malabar Spinach
- Planting Time: April through August
- This isn’t a true spinach, but it’s a heat-loving vining green that does well in Florida summers and is delicious in salads or sautés.
Tips for a Successful Summer Garden
- Water Early: Water in the morning to avoid fungal issues and keep plants hydrated during the heat of the day.
- Mulch: A good layer of mulch helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay.
- Watch for Pests: Summer in Florida brings bugs. Keep an eye out for caterpillars, aphids, and beetles, and consider natural deterrents when possible.
- Choose the Right Location: Most vegetables need 6–8 hours of sunlight. Make sure your garden space gets plenty of sun and has good drainage.
Gardening Brings Life to Your New Home
Adding a vegetable garden to your Central Florida home not only provides fresh food and a fun outdoor hobby—it also increases curb appeal and can be a big plus for future buyers. If you’re in the market for a home with the perfect backyard for gardening, or you’re thinking about selling and want to boost your home’s value with a thriving garden space, I’d love to help!
Let’s find (or create) the perfect spot to grow your roots—literally and figuratively.
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Want a printable veggie planting calendar or a local nursery recommendation?