When and What to Plant in South Florida’s Kitchen Gardens
South Florida’s unique tropical climate offers gardeners a rare advantage: year-round growing potential. But success in your kitchen garden depends on planting the right crops at the right time.
This guide breaks down the best vegetables to plant seasonally in Jupiter, FL and the surrounding Palm Beach County area. Whether you’re starting a raised bed, container garden, or in-ground plot, this local planting calendar will help you grow with confidence.
Understanding South Florida's Planting Seasons
Unlike most regions, South Florida doesn’t follow the traditional four-season growing model. Instead, the year is divided into two main gardening seasons:
- Cool Season: October through March
- Warm/Hot Season: April through September
During the cooler months, leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs thrive. In the hotter months, it’s best to focus on tropical, heat-loving plants like okra, eggplant, and sweet potatoes.
Bonus: With the right planning, you can grow fresh food 10–12 months out of the year in South Florida.
Month-by-Month Planting Guide for Jupiter, FL
Here’s a simplified planting calendar based on climate data, soil conditions, and what we’ve seen thrive in Palm Beach County kitchen gardens.
Month | Recommended Vegetables | Notes |
January | Lettuce, kale, spinach, carrots, beets, parsley | Prime cool-season crop time |
February | Broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cilantro, arugula | Last chance before spring heat arrives |
March | Tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers | Transition into warm-weather crops |
April | Eggplant, okra, squash, zucchini | Heat-tolerant plants start strong |
May | Sweet potatoes, malabar spinach, roselle | Focus on drought/heat-resistant crops |
June | Okra, eggplant, southern peas | Limited planting; focus on maintaining |
July | Tropicals like chaya, yuca, ginger | Prep for fall planting in late July |
August | Start seeds indoors for fall garden | Soil prep, composting, pest control |
September | Lettuce, collards, kale, carrots, radishes | Start planting cool-weather crops again |
October | Arugula, Swiss chard, beets, parsley | Cool season in full swing |
November | Broccoli, cabbage, onions, herbs | Excellent time for robust greens |
December | Spinach, carrots, lettuce, dill | Great month for leafy growth and root crops |
Best Crops by Season in Palm Beach County
Cool Season (October – March)
These plants love the shorter days and mild nights of Florida’s winter:
- Lettuce (romaine, butterhead, oakleaf)
- Kale, collard greens, and Swiss chard
- Spinach and arugula
- Broccoli and cauliflower
- Carrots, radishes, turnips, beets
- Onions and garlic
- Parsley, dill, cilantro
These are ideal for raised bed gardens or patio container systems that receive full sun and good drainage.
Warm Season (April – September)
South Florida summers are hot and humid. Stick to these heat-resilient crops:
- Tomatoes (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Peppers (banana, jalapeño, bell)
- Eggplant
- Okra
- Southern peas (black-eyed peas)
- Sweet potatoes
- Malabar spinach
- Herbs like basil, oregano, lemongrass, Cuban oregano
For best results, use mulch, consistent watering, and consider shade cloth for delicate plants.
What About Summer Gardening in Jupiter, FL?
South Florida summers can be tough on delicate vegetables. June through August brings high humidity, intense sun, and frequent rain. But that doesn’t mean you need to stop gardening.
Summer Garden Tips:
- Grow tropical vegetables (chaya, taro, roselle, yuca)
- Focus on perennial herbs (lemongrass, oregano, rosemary)
- Build soil with cover crops or compost
- Install drip irrigation or use mulch to retain moisture
- Avoid planting lettuce, broccoli, or spinach in summer—they’ll bolt
With a little planning, even summer can be productive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Seasonally
- Ignoring climate-specific planting windows
Florida isn’t like the rest of the country—following a northern gardening calendar leads to frustration. - Skipping soil preparation
Jupiter soils are sandy and drain fast. Use organic compost and raised beds for best results. - Planting too much at once
Succession planting (every 2–3 weeks) ensures a steady harvest. - Overwatering in summer
Florida’s rain patterns often provide enough—avoid root rot by checking moisture levels. - Neglecting pest prevention
Aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars love tender greens. Use neem oil, row covers, or natural deterrents.
Tools and Products to Make Planting Easier
Here are some garden tools and techniques that work especially well in South Florida’s climate:
- Raised beds with coconut coir or compost blends
- Drip irrigation systems for water efficiency
- Shade cloth for heat-sensitive plants
- Natural fertilizers (fish emulsion, worm castings)
- Organic pest controls like neem oil or beneficial insects
At Palm Beach Kitchen Gardens, we design and install custom garden systems using sustainable methods that support long-term health and productivity.
FAQs About Planting Vegetables in South Florida
Can I grow vegetables in the summer in Jupiter, FL?
Yes, but you’ll need to focus on heat-tolerant crops and consider providing shade or mulch. Okra, eggplant, sweet potatoes, and tropical greens thrive in summer conditions.
Do I need to replant every season?
Yes. Seasonal replanting ensures crops are matched to Florida’s specific growing windows and improves harvest success.
What vegetables grow best in containers in South Florida?
Herbs, lettuce, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and peppers do very well in pots. Use deep containers with good drainage.
How often should I water my vegetables in South Florida?
In winter, 2–3 times a week is usually enough. In summer, check daily due to rapid evaporation, especially for container gardens.
Can Palm Beach Kitchen Gardens plant and maintain my garden for me?
Absolutely. We offer seasonal planting, raised bed installs, and full-service kitchen garden maintenance throughout Jupiter and surrounding areas.
Ready to Grow with the Seasons?
Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a seasoned grower, timing is everything when it comes to successful vegetable gardening in Florida.
Palm Beach Kitchen Gardens helps you:
- Design a seasonal planting plan
- Choose climate-appropriate crops
- Install raised beds and irrigation
- Maintain your garden throughout the year
Serving Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, and beyond
Get started with your seasonal garden consultation and enjoy the taste of fresh, local produce grown right outside your door.
Request your free consultation today