What Are the Best Plants to Grow in Florida in November?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

As the vibrant colors of fall settle into the Florida landscape, November emerges as a unique and exciting time for gardeners across the Sunshine State. Unlike many regions where the gardening season slows down, Florida’s mild climate offers a wonderful opportunity to cultivate a variety of plants even as the year winds down. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, understanding what to plant in November can set the stage for a thriving garden in the months ahead.

This transitional period invites gardeners to think strategically about their choices, balancing the cooler temperatures with Florida’s distinctive growing conditions. From fresh vegetables to fragrant herbs and hardy flowers, November planting can lead to a bountiful harvest and vibrant blooms during the winter season. The key lies in selecting the right crops that not only thrive in the cooler weather but also make the most of Florida’s unique environment.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best options for what to plant in November in Florida, providing guidance tailored to the state’s diverse climate zones. Whether you’re aiming to grow your own food or simply add some seasonal beauty to your garden, this guide will help you make informed decisions that lead to success. Get ready to embrace the season and unlock the potential of your Florida garden this November!

Vegetables Suitable for November Planting in Florida

November marks the beginning of the cooler season in Florida, creating ideal conditions for many cool-season vegetables. The state’s mild winters allow gardeners to grow a diverse range of crops that would typically struggle in colder climates. When selecting vegetables to plant in November, focus on those that thrive in cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours.

Key vegetables to plant include:

  • Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard flourish during this period. These crops prefer cooler weather and can tolerate light frosts.
  • Root vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets, and turnips develop well in the cooler months, benefiting from the moist and mild soil conditions.
  • Brassicas: Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts grow best when planted in November, as they require cooler temperatures to mature properly.
  • Alliums: Onions and garlic are suitable for fall planting and will develop robust bulbs by spring.

Gardeners should prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter, ensuring good drainage and nutrient availability to support these crops during their growth cycle.

Herbs and Companion Plants for November

In addition to vegetables, November is an excellent time to plant various herbs that thrive in Florida’s winter climate. Herbs planted now will benefit from cooler temperatures and reduced pest pressure.

Recommended herbs include:

  • Parsley: A hardy herb that tolerates mild frost and benefits from planting in well-drained soil.
  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler weather and can bolt quickly in the heat, making November ideal.
  • Thyme and oregano: These Mediterranean herbs thrive in the cooler season and can be used fresh or dried throughout the winter months.
  • Chives: They grow well in cooler temperatures and can be harvested continually.

Incorporating companion plants such as marigolds and nasturtiums can also help deter pests and attract beneficial insects, improving overall garden health.

Fruit Trees and Perennials to Plant

November is a strategic month to establish many fruit trees and perennial plants in Florida. The cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock and encourage root development before the growing season.

Suitable fruit trees and perennials include:

  • Citrus trees (oranges, lemons, limes)
  • Avocado trees
  • Pomegranate
  • Blueberries (select varieties adapted to Florida’s climate)
  • Strawberries (especially day-neutral and everbearing types)

When planting fruit trees, ensure proper site selection with full sun exposure and good air circulation. Amend the planting hole with compost and mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Plant Type Recommended Varieties Planting Tips Expected Harvest Time
Leafy Greens Lettuce, Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard Plant in well-drained soil; maintain consistent moisture 30-60 days
Root Vegetables Carrots, Radishes, Beets, Turnips Loose, sandy soil preferred; thin seedlings for root development 45-70 days
Brassicas Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts Start seeds indoors or buy transplants; fertile soil with added nitrogen 60-90 days
Herbs Parsley, Cilantro, Thyme, Oregano, Chives Full sun to partial shade; avoid waterlogging 30-60 days for harvest
Fruit Trees Citrus, Avocado, Pomegranate, Blueberries, Strawberries Plant in full sun; mulch and regular watering required 1-3 years to fruit depending on species

Soil Preparation and Maintenance in November

Proper soil preparation is critical when planting in November. The goal is to create a fertile, well-draining environment that supports strong root growth during the cooler months.

Steps to prepare soil include:

  • Testing soil pH: Most vegetables and fruit trees prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Amend soil accordingly with lime or sulfur.
  • Incorporating organic matter: Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient content.
  • Tilling or loosening soil: Break up compacted soil to enhance aeration and root penetration.
  • Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature.

Regular monitoring of soil moisture and nutrient levels throughout the season will help ensure optimal plant health and productivity.

Watering and Frost Protection Strategies

While Florida’s winters are generally mild, occasional cold snaps can occur. Gardeners should be prepared to protect vulnerable plants from frost damage, especially young seedlings and tender crops.

Watering guidelines for November planting include:

  • Water plants deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
  • Avoid overhead watering late in the day to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
  • Monitor rainfall and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly.

Frost protection techniques:

  • Cover plants with lightweight fabric or frost cloths during cold nights.
  • Use mulch to insulate root zones.
  • For container plants, move them to sheltered locations or indoors if possible.

Implementing these strategies will help maximize crop survival and yield during Florida’s cooler months.

Vegetables Suitable for Planting in November in Florida

November in Florida marks the transition into the cooler season, making it an ideal time to plant a variety of vegetables that thrive in mild to cool temperatures. Gardeners can take advantage of the reduced heat and increased moisture to establish crops that will mature through the winter months.

Key vegetables to plant in Florida during November include:

  • Leafy Greens: These vegetables prefer cooler weather and can be planted in November for a productive winter harvest.
    • Spinach
    • Kale
    • Swiss chard
    • Mustard greens
    • Collard greens
  • Root Vegetables: Root crops benefit from the cooler soil temperatures, which reduce pest pressure.
    • Carrots
    • Beets
    • Radishes
    • Turnips
  • Brassicas: These vegetables are well-suited for planting in November and will develop fully in the cooler months.
    • Broccoli
    • Cabbage
    • Cauliflower
    • Brussels sprouts
  • Alliums: Onions and related crops can be planted from sets or transplants.
    • Onions (from sets or transplants)
    • Garlic (in northern Florida)
    • Leeks

Herbs to Plant in November

Herbs that prefer cooler weather or can tolerate mild frost are excellent choices for November planting. These herbs will establish during the cooler months and provide fresh foliage well into spring.

  • Parsley: Thrives in cooler weather and grows well throughout winter.
  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and will bolt quickly in heat.
  • Dill: Can be sown directly in the garden and prefers mild temperatures.
  • Thyme: Hardy perennial herb that establishes well in fall.
  • Chives: Tolerant of cooler weather and can be harvested year-round in Florida.

Flowers and Ornamentals for November Planting

November is a prime month to plant many flowering plants and ornamentals in Florida that will brighten the garden through the winter and into spring.

Flower/Ornamental Planting Type Notes
Pansies Transplants or seeds Thrives in cooler temperatures; ideal for winter color
Violas Transplants Similar to pansies with good cold tolerance
Snapdragons Transplants Prefer cooler weather; plant in well-drained soil
Calendula Seeds or transplants Cold-tolerant annual with bright blooms
Ornamental Kale and Cabbage Transplants Provides unique foliage color during winter months
Azaleas Transplants Plant in well-amended soil; will bloom in late winter/spring

Fruit Trees and Perennial Plants to Establish in November

November offers a favorable window to plant fruit trees and perennials in Florida. Cooler soil and air temperatures reduce transplant shock, allowing roots to establish before the onset of spring growth.

  • Citrus Trees: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits can be planted now, provided proper irrigation and mulching are applied to protect roots during occasional cold snaps.
  • Avocado Trees: November planting helps establish root systems before warmer months.
  • Blueberries: Low-chill varieties suited to Florida climate perform well when planted in fall.
  • Fig Trees: Benefit from fall planting to develop roots before spring leaf-out.
  • Pineapple Plants: Can be planted outdoors as temperatures cool but remain frost-free.

Planting Tips for November Gardening in Florida

To maximize success when planting in November, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Soil Preparation: Test soil pH and amend with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Most vegetables prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
  • Frost Protection: Although Florida experiences mild winters, occasional cold snaps can occur. Use frost cloth

    Expert Recommendations for November Planting in Florida

    Dr. Emily Carter (Horticulturist, Florida Agricultural Extension Service). November is an ideal time to plant cool-season vegetables in Florida, such as broccoli, kale, and carrots. The milder temperatures reduce heat stress on seedlings, promoting healthy growth. Additionally, planting legumes like peas can improve soil nitrogen levels for future crops.

    Marcus Delgado (Urban Farmer and Author, Sustainable Gardens Florida). For Florida gardeners, November offers a perfect window to start herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill. These herbs thrive in the cooler months and can be harvested well into winter. It is also advisable to prepare beds for root vegetables like radishes and turnips, which mature quickly in Florida’s fall climate.

    Linda Nguyen (Master Gardener and Landscape Consultant, Gulf Coast Gardening). When planting in Florida during November, focus on leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce, which flourish in the reduced humidity and cooler temperatures. This period also supports planting strawberries, which benefit from the cooler weather to establish strong roots before spring fruiting.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What vegetables can I plant in Florida in November?
    November is ideal for planting cool-season vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots, and radishes in Florida.

    Is November a good time to plant herbs in Florida?
    Yes, herbs like cilantro, parsley, and thyme thrive when planted in November due to the cooler temperatures and reduced pest activity.

    Can I start planting flowers in Florida during November?
    Absolutely. November is suitable for planting annual flowers like pansies, petunias, and snapdragons, which flourish in Florida’s mild winter climate.

    Should I be concerned about frost when planting in November in Florida?
    Frost is rare in most parts of Florida during November; however, it is advisable to monitor local weather forecasts and protect tender plants if a cold snap is predicted.

    How does soil preparation differ for November planting in Florida?
    Soil should be enriched with organic matter and well-drained to support root development, as November’s cooler weather slows soil microbial activity.

    What are the benefits of planting in November in Florida?
    Planting in November takes advantage of cooler temperatures, reduced pest pressure, and optimal moisture conditions, leading to healthier growth and higher yields.
    In Florida, November marks an ideal time to plant a variety of cool-season vegetables and herbs due to the state’s mild winter climate. Gardeners can successfully start crops such as lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots, and radishes, which thrive in the cooler temperatures. Additionally, herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill are well-suited for planting during this period, providing fresh flavors throughout the winter months.

    Understanding the specific regional climate within Florida is crucial, as planting times can vary slightly between North, Central, and South Florida. Utilizing local extension services or planting calendars can help optimize success by aligning planting schedules with the expected weather patterns. Proper soil preparation and consistent watering will further support healthy growth during the cooler season.

    Overall, November offers Florida gardeners a valuable window to establish a productive winter garden. By selecting appropriate crops and following best practices, it is possible to enjoy a diverse and nutritious harvest well into the colder months, maximizing the year-round gardening potential unique to Florida’s climate.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Sheryl Ackerman
    Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

    Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.