🍂 September Growing Guide: Transition to Fall Planting

Florida Zone 9 & Tropical Growers:

September is the start of the fall growing season. The heat may still be hanging around, but cooler nights are on the horizon. Keep an eye on plants after summer storms, refresh mulch, and begin preparing beds for fall planting. This is a great time to plant citrus, mulberries, guavas, figs, and other fruit trees so they have time to establish before winter.

For Growers in Cooler Zones:

As nighttime temperatures begin to drop, start planning which tropicals will need to come indoors. Bring tender plants inside before nights consistently fall below 55°F, and give them a good pest check and rinse first. If you’re growing in a greenhouse, keep an eye on nighttime temperatures and be ready to add supplemental heat as needed.

What to Plant Now:

• Zone 9+: Citrus, mulberries, guavas, figs, tropical peppers, papaya, bananas, and other fruit trees. Start cool-season crops like leafy greens, herbs, and salad greens as temperatures begin to moderate.

• Cooler zones or indoors: Dwarf fruit trees, tropical herbs, salad greens, and other container-friendly edibles. Start ginger and turmeric indoors for a head start on next spring.

Harvest Highlights:

September brings plenty to harvest, including guavas, bananas, avocados, figs, and tropical fruits. Keep picking herbs regularly to encourage fresh growth, and preserve any extras for the months ahead.

Pro Tip:
Plant for the transition. Use the spaces beneath established fruit trees for herbs and cool-season greens. You’ll make the most of your garden space while creating a living mulch that helps protect the soil as the seasons change.