🌴 November Growing Guide: Fall Abundance in the Subtropics

Planting Season for Zone 8–10+ Gardeners

November is one of the best months to be a gardener in the subtropics. While much of the country slows down for winter, Zone 8–10+ growers—from Florida to coastal Texas, southern California, and beyond—are just getting started. The intense summer heat has eased, the air feels fresh, and the soil is still warm enough for roots to thrive.

This is prime planting season for fruit trees, herbs, and tropical edibles that love mild winters. Whether you’re in Central Florida, South Texas, or a warm pocket of California, November is the perfect time to grow strong, resilient plants that will flourish come spring.

What to Plant Now in Zones 8–10+

🌴 Tropical & Subtropical Fruit Trees: Guava, Sapodilla, Fig, Jaboticaba, Mulberry, Loquat, Banana, and Citrus.
🌿 Herbs & Medicinals: Lemongrass, Bay Laurel, Damiana, Cuban Oregano, Rue, and Neem.
🍃 Perennial Greens: Katuk, Chaya, Surinam Spinach, and Lagos Spinach.
🌸 Florida Natives & Pollinator Shrubs: Florida Native Tea Bush, Yaupon Holly, and Mouse’s Pineapple.

In Florida and other Zone 9 regions, this is still an incredible time to plant—especially fruit trees and perennials that can establish strong roots before spring growth.

If You’re in a Colder Climate (Zones 7 and Below)

Even if winter is on the way where you live, your subtropical plants can still thrive with a little extra care. Here’s how to keep them healthy until spring:

Bring tropicals indoors. Move container-grown plants like guava, banana, or turmeric to a bright, warm spot inside before your first frost.
Use grow lights or sunny windows. These help keep herbs and leafy perennials growing slowly through winter.
Reduce watering. Most tropicals slow their growth in cooler, lower-light conditions.
Keep roots cozy. Mulch or wrap pots to protect from sudden temperature drops.
Plan your spring garden. Use this downtime to dream, design, and preorder tropicals for early spring planting.

Garden Tasks for November

Mulch deeply. Protect roots and conserve moisture as the air dries out.
Top-dress soil. Add compost or worm castings to feed beneficial microbes.
Fertilize lightly. Use slow-release organic fertilizer to strengthen roots through winter.
Prune gently. Focus on dead or crossing branches; save heavy pruning for spring.
Watch the weather. In Zone 8 and northern Zone 9, keep frost cloth ready for cool nights.

Harvest Highlights

Fall harvests are still abundant in the subtropics! November brings lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, galangal, fingerroot, pigeon peas, and late-season guavas and bananas. Use them fresh in teas, soups, and cozy fall recipes—or dry your herbs now for winter blends.

Why Plant Now

Planting in November gives tropicals and perennials time to establish deep roots before the spring growth rush. It’s easier on both you and your plants—fewer pests, less watering, and perfect weather to be outside.