What to Plant in Florida in Spring

Spring is one of the best times of year to plant in Florida, with mild temperatures, the last frost behind you, and a long growing season ahead. Here's what to focus on.

 

Fruit Trees

 

Spring is an excellent window for planting fruit trees like citrus, figs, bananas, and guava. Root systems get a full season of warm weather to establish before the stress of summer heat or the following winter, giving trees a strong head start.

 

Flowering Shrubs and Vines

 

Spring planting gives bougainvillea, hibiscus, and lantana a full growing season to establish roots before their peak summer bloom period. Plants settled in during spring tend to put on a stronger flowering show by early summer.

 

Berries

 

Blueberries and other berry plants benefit from spring planting, giving roots time to establish before summer heat and setting the stage for a stronger crop the following season.

 

Groundcovers and Bedding Plants

 

Heat-loving groundcovers like moss rose thrive when planted in spring, since they'll have ample warmth and sun to fill in before the peak of summer.

 

Why Spring Timing Matters

 

Planting in spring, rather than the height of summer, avoids the double stress of transplant shock and extreme heat happening at the same time. It also gives roots more time to establish before the following winter's cold snaps, which is especially important for cold-sensitive tropicals.

 

Planting Tips for Spring

 

Water new plantings consistently during their first few weeks, since establishing root systems are more vulnerable to drought stress even in mild spring weather. Hold off on heavy fertilizing right at planting time, and instead let roots establish for a few weeks first. Mulch around new plantings to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature as the weather warms.

 

Getting Started

 

Spring's mild weather and long runway to summer make it one of the best windows for planting almost anything in a Florida landscape. Browse our full plant selection to find what's right for your yard this spring.