Seasonal Planting Guide
Month-by-month guide to growing food and flowers in Nassau County, Florida — USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.
☀️ May Planting Guide
Heat and humidity increase significantly. Most cool-season crops bolt and should be removed. Focus on heat-tolerant varieties. Water deeply in early morning.
🥬 Vegetables
- •Southern peas
- •Sweet potatoes
- •Okra
- •Watermelon
- •Cantaloupe
- •Eggplant (heat-tolerant varieties)
- •Cherry tomatoes
🌿 Herbs
- •Basil
- •Rosemary
- •Lemongrass
- •Mint
🌺 Flowers
- •Portulaca
- •Lantana
- •Pentas
- •Firebush
Understanding Nassau County's Growing Zone
Nassau County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, with average annual minimum temperatures between 20°F and 25°F. This subtropical climate provides an exceptionally long growing season — often 300+ days — allowing for both warm-season and cool-season crop production.
The county's soil types range from deep sandy soils near the coast to richer loamy soils inland. Most vegetable gardens benefit from heavy amendment with organic matter such as compost, aged manure, and peat. Raised beds are popular due to the high water table in many areas.
Nassau County's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures, often keeping coastal areas 3-5°F warmer than inland locations during winter freezes. This maritime influence extends the growing season for coastal gardeners and makes it possible to overwinter tender perennials.