Florida’s climate is unique compared to most parts of the country. While northern states often see spring as the big planting season, our subtropical environment in Florida creates different opportunities for success, of which planting year round is one of them! But there are optimal times with slight advantages. The best times to plant in Florida are usually winter and summer, with fall and spring still being good options with careful attention to watering needs.
❄️ Winter: One of the Best Times to Plant
During Florida’s cooler months, many plants enter a dormant or semi-dormant growth state. This has several benefits for establishment:
- 🌱 Lower water needs – Dormant plants require less moisture while their root systems adjust.
- 🌱 Less stress on plants – Cooler temperatures mean reduced risk of heat stress and drying out between waterings.
- 🌱 Ideal for trees and shrubs – Woody plants get time to establish roots before the Spring growing season.
Examples of winter-friendly plants:
- Shade and ornamental trees (Live Oak, Magnolias, Red Maple, Dahoon Holly)
- Evergreen shrubs (Simpson’s Stopper, Shiny Coffee, Firebush)
- Perennials and groundcovers (Blue Daze, Beach Mistflower, Creeping Sage)
👉 At Wilcox Nursery & Landscape, we offer a wide selection of trees, shrubs, and hardy perennials perfect for winter planting. Visit our garden center in Largo this season to get started or our online store with local delivery.
🌧️ Summer: Harnessing Florida’s Rains
Florida’s hot summers may seem less than ideal for planting, but they bring one of the biggest benefits: consistent summer rains…usually.
- 🌧️ Natural irrigation – Frequent rainfall reduces dependence on irrigation systems or handwatering during establishment.
- 🌧️ Rapid growth – Warm temperatures and moisture encourage fast root establishment.
- 🌧️ Best for natives – Plants adapted to Florida thrive in this season.
Examples of summer-friendly plants:
- Native wildflowers (Coreopsis, Dotted Horsemint, Dune Sunflower)
- Palms (Sabal Palm, Florida Thatch Palm, Silver Saw Palmetto)
- Ornamental Native Shrubs (Bahama Cassia, Dwarf Shiny Coffee, Horizontal Cocoplum)
👉 Summer is one of the best times to add natives and tropicals to your landscape. Stop by Wilcox Nursery & Landscape to explore our Florida-friendly selections—all chosen to thrive in our climate.
🍂🌸 Fall & Spring: Good Options with Extra Care
Fall and spring are not bad planting seasons—but they are generally Florida’s driest times of year. With actively growing plants and without steady rainfall, establishing new plants requires extra attention to irrigation, you don’t want to miss a day of watering during these seasons.
- 💧 Consistent watering is crucial – New installations must be carefully monitored to prevent drought stress.
- 💧 Good for seasonal color – Cooler fall and spring temperatures are ideal for planting the fun, colorful stuff. But don’t be intimidated to take on larger plantings too!
- 💧 Mild weather for gardeners – Easier times of year for outdoor projects, take advantage of the cool mornings.
Examples of fall/spring-friendly plants:
- Wildflowers (Lanceleaf coreopsis, black-eyed susans, goldenrods)
- Vegetables and herbs (Vegetable Seeds)
- Shrubs and Trees
👉 If you’re planning a fall or spring garden refresh, our team at Wilcox Nursery & Landscape can help you select the right plants and guide you on proper irrigation techniques.
✅ Key Takeaway
- Winter and summer = most reliable planting seasons (dormancy & rainfall).
- Fall and spring = still good options but require extra irrigation.
🌱 Why Choose Wilcox Nursery & Landscape?
For more than 70 years, Wilcox Nursery & Landscape has helped homeowners and businesses across Pinellas County create sustainable, Florida-friendly landscapes.
When you shop with Wilcox, you’re not just buying plants—you’re gaining:
- Expert guidance on plant selection and care.
- Professional design and installation services.
- A more resilient, Florida-native landscape that supports local wildlife.
👉 Let us help you “Plant Real Florida.” Visit our garden center today or contact our team to start planning your next project.
