Thinking about starting a garden but feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there? You’re not alone! Gardening in Jacksonville and throughout Northeast Florida comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, but with a little guidance, you can create a thriving garden just in time for spring. While I don’t claim to be an expert, I’ve spent several years digging in the dirt here on the First Coast, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned to help you get started.
Know Your Jacksonville Planting Zone
Northeast Florida falls in USDA Zone 9A, offering a long growing season with hot, humid summers and mild winters. When you begin gardening in Jacksonville it’s important to choose plants that thrive in our subtropical climate. When selecting seeds, read the packaging carefully to ensure they’re suited for Zone 9A. Be cautious with plants from big box stores—many may not be ideal for this region. Instead, shop at local nurseries, where you’ll find starter plants that are better adapted to the area, along with expert advice to set your garden up for success.
Understand the Seasons
You can grow something almost year-round here, but timing is everything.
- Spring (February – April): Tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, and herbs.
- Summer (May – August): Heat-loving crops like okra, sweet potatoes, eggplant, and southern peas.
- Fall (September – November): Greens (kale, lettuce, collards), root vegetables (carrots, radishes), and broccoli.
- Winter (December – January): Cold-tolerant greens, onions, and cabbage.
I use the Jacksonville growing chart as a guide and also rely heavily on the growing guide from the Florida Extension office that is put out monthly. Planting at the right time ensures your crops have the best chance to thrive. Pay attention to first and last frost dates, monitor weather patterns, and adjust your planting schedule as needed.
Pick the Right Spot
When selecting the spot for your garden, choose an area that receives 6–8 hours of sunlight daily. Make sure the site has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around your plants. Since Florida’s sandy soil can lack nutrients, amending the soil with compost or organic matter is essential. Many gardeners in Northeast Florida opt for raised beds for better soil control and drainage, which can lead to healthier, more productive plants.
Water Wisely
Watering your garden properly is key to keeping plants healthy and thriving, especially in Northeast Florida’s hot climate. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root growth and drought tolerance. Shallow, frequent watering can lead to weak roots and stressed plants. The best time to water is early morning, when temperatures are cooler and winds are calmer, allowing the water to soak into the soil without evaporating too quickly. To help retain moisture and reduce the need for constant watering, apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants. Mulch not only conserves moisture but also suppresses weeds, regulates soil temperature, and adds nutrients as it breaks down.
Start Small
Starting small will help you build confidence and enjoy the process without getting discouraged. Focus on plants that thrive in Jacksonville’’s climate, like basil, parsley, lettuce, kale, and radishes. As you gain experience, you can expand your garden with more challenging crops and larger beds. Remember, gardening is a learning journey—celebrate your successes, learn from mistakes, and most importantly, have fun watching your garden grow!
Watch for Pests
Regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage, such as yellowing leaves, holes, or sticky residue. Hand-picking larger pests, like caterpillars, can be effective for small infestations. Companion planting—growing certain plants together—can also help deter pests naturally. For example, marigolds can ward off aphids, while herbs like basil and rosemary repel mosquitoes and flies. Staying proactive and maintaining healthy plants is the best defense against pests in your garden.
Most Importantly – Have Fun!
Now that you’ve soaked up all the basics of starting a garden, are you ready to dig in and start gardening in Jacksonville? I hope so! Remember, gardening is a journey—have fun, take it slow, and enjoy the process. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; each season is a chance to learn and grow. If you have questions along the way, your local extension office is a fantastic resource. And when it’s time to pick up plants or supplies, shop local to support small businesses and get expert advice from people who know our region best. Happy gardening!
Jillian is a New Englander at heart. Born in Jacksonville Beach, she grew up in Massachusetts but was beckoned back to Florida for a Disney World Internship. She returned to the beach in 2005 after graduating from Florida State. Ten years ago she opened her handmade & vintage collective shop, Sew Vicious, in Neptune Beach. Jillian raises chickens, is a passionate gardener, a DIYer, a thrift store junkie, a deal loving mama, and has several inspirational travel journals available on Amazon. She leads her daughters’ Girl Scout Troop, teaches sewing at a local Montessori School, and is a Parents Who Lead Alumni. She loves surprising her husband and daughters with mini-vacations around the Sunshine State.
