In this extensive guide, we’ll dig into the best vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants to sow or plant in September. Each section provides specific planting recommendations, temperature tolerances, and other germination tips to ensure a flourishing garden throughout the fall.
Vegetables To Plant
September is an ideal time for starting a fall vegetable garden in Central Florida. The weather begins to cool, and the first fall rains provide essential moisture for new plantings.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the quintessential garden vegetable, and September is prime time to plant them in Central Florida. Choose heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Heatmaster’ or ‘Solar Fire,’ which thrive in warmer temperatures.
Temperature Tolerance: July and August can be scorching, but by September, the days begin to cool down, making 70°F to 90°F a preferable range for tomato growth.
Planting Instructions: Start seeds indoors or purchase seedlings for transplantation after the last heat wave. Ideally, transplant when nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 60°F. Plant in a sunny location and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are another popular option when planting in September. Varieties like ‘California Wonder’ and ‘Sweet Banana’ flourish in warm weather and can produce plentiful yields into late fall.
Temperature Tolerance: Peppers do best at temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. They prefer a long growing season, making fall planting advantageous before colder nights arrive.
Planting Instructions: Use well-drained soil and ensure they receive full sunlight for at least six hours daily. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for optimal growth.
Lettuce
Lettuce varieties, especially the heat-resistant ones like ‘Butterhead’ or ‘Romaine,’ can be sown in September. They thrive in cooler temperatures, making this time ideal for successful germination.
Temperature Tolerance: Lettuce prefers cooler temperatures between 60°F to 70°F. This fall planting helps avoid the bolting that can occur in hot weather.
Planting Instructions: Direct sow seeds in nutrient-rich soil, ensuring they remain moist but not waterlogged. Germination takes about 7-14 days, so monitor soil moisture carefully.
Radishes
Radishes are an extraordinary fast-growing vegetable, perfect for September planting. Varieties like ‘Cherry Bell’ and ‘French Breakfast’ mature quickly and can thrive in autumn conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Optimally, radishes grow well in temperatures of 55°F to 75°F. They can tolerate light frost, allowing for extended growth into early winter.
Planting Instructions: Direct sow seeds in rows, spacing them about an inch apart. Given their fast growth cycle of around 4 weeks, stagger planting to ensure a continuous harvest.
Carrots
Carrots planted in September will flourish as temperatures begin to drop. Varieties like ‘Nantes’ or ‘Danvers’ are excellent choices for local soil conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Carrots germinate best at soil temperatures between 50°F and 86°F. They can withstand light frost, making fall a great time to plant.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil that is loose and free of large clumps. Thin seedlings to allow adequate space for root development.
Spinach
Spinach is highly nutritious and an excellent plant for fall gardening. Varieties like ‘Bloomsdale’ or ‘Tyee’ perform well in Central Florida’s climate.
Temperature Tolerance: Spinach thrives at temperatures between 50°F to 70°F, making it perfect for the cooler aspect of fall.
Planting Instructions: Directly sow seeds in moist, fertile soil. Water regularly but do not saturate, as spinach prefers consistent moisture.
Broccoli
Broccoli varieties such as ‘Calabrese’ can be grown in the fall months for a late harvest. It’s tolerant of cooler temperatures, which makes it a solid choice for September planting.
Temperature Tolerance: Broccoli grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 65°F. It can handle some frost, often resulting in sweeter heads.
Planting Instructions: Start seeds indoors and transplant seedlings outdoors after 4-6 weeks. Broccoli requires rich soil and consistent moisture.
Beets
Beets are another excellent vegetable to sow in September, providing abundant greens along with the roots. Varieties like ‘Detroit Dark Red’ adapt well to seasonal shifts.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F, and they tolerate light frost.
Planting Instructions: Direct sow seeds in rows spaced about 12 inches apart. Thin seedlings as they grow to ensure adequate space for development.
Cucumbers
As one of the favorite summer crops, cucumbers can be planted in September if selecting varieties like ‘Straight Eight’ that yield in warmer conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: They flourish in temperatures between 70°F and 95°F, so ensure you’re planting if the warm weather holds.
Planting Instructions: Sowing should happen in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. They can be seeded directly or started in pots before transplanting.
Squash
Both summer and winter squash, including varieties like ‘Zucchini’ or ‘Butternut,’ can be planted in September. These plants are adaptable and contribute much to garden variety.
Temperature Tolerance: Preferably grow in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F.
Planting Instructions: Start seeds directly in the soil or in pots to allow for easier transplantation. Provide adequate space for sprawling vines.
Flowers To Plant
The vibrant flowers of Central Florida can be brightened with new blooms planted in September. With slightly cooler temperatures, it’s an excellent time to enhance your garden’s visual appeal.
Marigolds
Marigolds are hardy flowers that provide a burst of color and are known for deterring pests. They thrive in Central Florida’s warmth.
Temperature Tolerance: Marigolds can tolerate a variety of temperatures but grow best in 60°F to 75°F.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly into garden beds after the last heat wave, ensuring they have full sunlight. Deadheading spent blooms promotes continuous flowering.
Pansies
Pansies are beautiful cool-season annuals that can add vibrancy to gardens or containers in Central Florida.
Temperature Tolerance: Pansies prefer cooler temperatures of about 45°F to 65°F and can tolerate some frost.
Planting Instructions: Start seeds or transplants outdoors in September for blooms through spring. They thrive in well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are another fantastic choice for fall planting, offering vertical blooms that can endure Central Florida’s seasonal fluctuations.
Temperature Tolerance: These flowers prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant seeds directly in the ground or start indoors and transplant. They require full sun and regular watering for robust growth.
Zinnias
Zinnias are versatile flowers that flourish in various soil types and offer a colorful spectacle throughout the fall.
Temperature Tolerance: Zinnias thrive in warm weather, preferring temperatures around 70°F to 80°F.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly in the garden in an area that receives ample sunlight. With regular deadheading, they will bloom throughout the season.
Salvia
Salvia brings unique shapes and colors to the garden. Varieties like ‘Mystic Spires Blue’ have a long bloom period, making them great for fall.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant flourishes in warm temperatures from 60°F to 80°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant in well-drained soil with good sunlight. They require minimal watering, making them drought-resistant.
Asters
Asters bloom spectacularly in the fall, showcasing a range of blue, pink, and lavender petals. These plants attract pollinators, enhancing biodiversity.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer temperatures from 60°F to 75°F, thriving as the heat wanes.
Planting Instructions: Start from seeds or purchase young plants, ensuring ample sunlight and moisture in well-draining soil.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are iconic fall flowers, easily planted in September for a lively autumn display.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in cooler weather and prefer temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F.
Planting Instructions: Ensure full sunlight and keep them watered but not soaked. Pinching back growth encourages bushier plants.
Celosia
Celosia features unique, colorful crests that add a whimsical touch to any garden. They’re remarkably hardy and heat-tolerant.
Temperature Tolerance: Celosia flourishes in temperatures from 70°F to 90°F, making them suitable for September.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly in well-drained soil. The more sun, the better the blooms, so choose your location carefully.
Pentas
Pentas are another excellent flower for Central Florida gardens, providing rich colors and attracting butterflies.
Temperature Tolerance: They actively grow in temperatures from 70°F to 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant them in well-drained soil and ensure they receive six hours of sunlight for optimal growth.
Cosmos
Cosmos flowers are cheerful and colorful, perfect for adding a naturalized style to gardens. They’re easy to grow and maintain.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in a range of temperatures, ideally 60°F to 75°F.
Planting Instructions: Directly sow seeds in a sunny area and allow for spacing between plants for airflow.
Herbs To Plant
September is a wonderful time to enrich your culinary and aromatic repertoire with herb planting in Central Florida. The cooler temperatures can boost growth, offering flavorful additions to your kitchen.
Basil
Basil, one of the most beloved herbs, can be planted in September to ensure fresh leaves for cooking.
Temperature Tolerance: Basil grows well in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F, but keep an eye on cooler nights.
Planting Instructions: Direct sow seeds or transplant seedlings in well-draining soil with of sunlight. Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a cool-weather annual that thrives when planted in September, providing fresh leaves and seeds.
Temperature Tolerance: It prefers temperatures in the 60°F to 75°F range.
Planting Instructions: Direct sow seeds in optimal soil and water them regularly. Harvest leaves early to prevent bolting.
Oregano
Oregano is a hardy perennial herb that thrives as fall approaches, making it ideal for planting now.
Temperature Tolerance: It flourishes in temperatures from 65°F to 75°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant seeds or transplants in well-drained soil with full sunlight. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth.
Chives
Chives are a perennial herb that can be planted in September for delightful flavor in dishes.
Temperature Tolerance: They grow best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.
Planting Instructions: They can be started indoors or sown directly outdoors in well-draining soil. Keep them moist but not waterlogged.
Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that thrives in the cooler temperatures of fall.
Temperature Tolerance: It grows best in temperatures around 65°F to 70°F.
Planting Instructions: Start seedlings indoors or directly sow seeds in the garden, placing them in a sunny, moist spot.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy herb that thrives in Central Florida’s climate, making its early fall planting advantageous.
Temperature Tolerance: It prefers very warm temperatures, thriving between 70°F and 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant in well-draining soil with good drainage, ensuring it receives full sunlight. Water sparingly.
Thyme
Thyme is a drought-resistant perennial that will flourish in September in Central Florida.
Temperature Tolerance: It prefers temperatures around 60°F to 70°F.
Planting Instructions: Directly sow seeds outdoors or start young plants in well-drained soil. Minimal watering is necessary.
Dill
Dill is a flavorful herb suited for the fall from September planting.
Temperature Tolerance: Thriving in temperatures of 60°F to 70°F, it grows well as the weather cools.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring regular watering. Dill can reach heights, so give it enough space.
Sage
Sage is a hardy herb that can flourish in Central Florida, given its warm climate.
Temperature Tolerance: Like rosemary, it prefers temperatures of around 70°F to 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Choose well-draining soil, ensuring full sunlight and minimal watering for optimal growth.
Basil
Basil may again enter the discussion as it is one of the most flexible and pungent herbs suitable for the warm months before frost sets.
Landscape Plants To Plant
Enhancing your landscape in September can create a vibrant outdoor space for both beauty and biodiversity. Central Florida’s unique climate allows various plants to thrive, contributing to a diverse and lush garden.
Lantana
Lantana is a hardy shrub that consistently attracts butterflies, making it an excellent addition to any landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives well in warmer temperatures, generally between 65°F and 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Ensure well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and abundant blooms.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is known for its vibrant blooms and is an iconic plant in Florida landscapes.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant prefers warm temperatures from 70°F and up, making it ideal for September.
Planting Instructions: Use well-drained soil and provide ample sunlight. Bougainvillea is drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering.
Canna Lily
Canna lilies offer spectacular flowers and lush foliage, making them ideal for adding drama to landscapes.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant rhizomes or bulbs in well-draining soil, and ensure they receive plenty of sunlight for optimal blooming.
Bottlebrush
Bottlebrush is a unique, striking flowering plant that attracts birds and pollinators.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives well in Central Florida’s climate, preferring temperatures around 70°F to 90°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant in rich, well-drained soil and provide adequate sunlight. Regular pruning promotes bushier growth and ample blooms.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis has stunning blooms and is a Florida native, offering a particularly vibrant addition to your landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
Planting Instructions: Directly sow seeds in areas with full sunlight, ensuring well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Indian Hawthorn
Indian Hawthorn is a drought-tolerant shrub that provides clusters of beautiful white or pink flowers.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives in temperatures around 65°F to 75°F, making it suitable for September planting.
Planting Instructions: Choose well-drained soil and ensure good sunlight. This shrub requires minimal watering once established.
Azaleas
Azaleas add a splash of color in landscapes, especially during the fall blooming season.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer temperatures around 60°F to 75°F.
Planting Instructions: Plant in well-drained, acidic soil. Ensure they don’t receive direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day to avoid leaf scorch.
Foxglove
Foxglove is a stunning perennial that grows well in Central Florida and offers striking flower spikes.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer cooler weather, thriving between 60°F and 70°F.
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds directly outdoors in well-drained soil and ensure consistent moisture.
Plumbago
Plumbago is a lush shrub with beautiful blue flowers and is tolerant of the warmer climate.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Sowing should be done in full sun and well-drained soil; regular pruning keeps this plant looking tidy.
ixora
Ixora is a vibrant shrub that blooms continuously and thrives well in Central Florida’s climate.
Temperature Tolerance: It prefers temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F.
Planting Instructions: Ensure full sunlight and moisture, but avoid over-watering to promote healthy growth.
