October Gardening: A Fresh Fall Start

October marks a time of change in the garden, and while much of the country is preparing for cooler weather, gardeners in warmer climates—especially here in Florida—are just getting started. Whether you’re planning to plant new crops, care for your subtropical fruit trees, or prepare for the cooler months ahead, October is the perfect month to breathe new life into your garden.

Here’s what you should focus on this October to ensure a fruitful and beautiful garden through fall and beyond:

1. Planting Subtropical Fruit Trees

If you’re in a subtropical or tropical zone (like Zones 9-11), October is an ideal time to plant fruit trees. The cooler temperatures are less stressful for newly planted trees, allowing them to establish strong roots before the next growing season.

At Sow Exotic, we offer a variety of fruit trees that thrive when planted in fall, including:

Mangoes – Now is the time to plant mango trees so they can root deeply before spring growth.
Avocados – These trees prefer the milder fall weather for planting and will benefit from Florida's warm winters.
Lychee and Longan – If you’re looking for unique tropical fruit trees, these are excellent choices to get into the ground in October.

Remember to water your new trees thoroughly and mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature as the season progresses.

2. Cool-Weather Veggies to Plant Now

October is also prime time for planting cool-weather crops in both Florida and other subtropical areas. These vegetables will thrive in the mild fall temperatures, producing an abundant harvest before the winter chill sets in.

Here are a few favorites to plant in October:

Leafy greens – Kale, spinach, lettuce, and arugula are excellent crops to sow now.
Root vegetables – Carrots, beets, and radishes grow well in the cooler weather.
Brassicas – Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage love the fall season and will produce tender heads in time for holiday meals.

At Sow Exotic, we offer a wide selection of heirloom seeds and plant starts for your fall garden. You can find everything from rare greens to heritage root vegetables perfect for your seasonal garden.

3. Caring for Your Existing Plants

Even though the summer heat is behind us, subtropical fruit trees and perennial plants still need care to thrive through the fall. October is a good time to prune, fertilize, and protect your plants as they transition to the cooler months.

Key Tasks for October:

Pruning: Lightly prune your fruit trees to remove any dead or damaged branches. This will improve air circulation and allow more light to reach the canopy.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to give your plants a nutrient boost before the colder months. For subtropical plants, this can help them sustain their growth and prepare for next spring.
Mulching: Add a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs. This helps to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

4. Prepare for the First Frost (If Applicable)

While Florida gardeners may not face the threat of frost as much as others, many customers across the country will need to take steps to protect their plants from sudden cold snaps.

Here’s how to prep:

Frost Cloths: Cover young or sensitive plants with frost blankets when temperatures drop below 40°F.
Greenhouses or Indoor Storage: Move potted tropical plants like citrus, guava, or banana trees indoors or into a greenhouse if your area gets early frost.
Mulch Heavily: A thick layer of mulch can help protect roots from frost damage.

5. Harvest Time for Certain Fruits

October is also a harvest month for several types of fruit. If you’ve been caring for fig trees, citrus, or guavas, now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Fruits to Harvest in October:

Figs: Brown Turkey Fig and other varieties may be ready for a final harvest. Enjoy them fresh or preserve them for the winter.
Citrus: Lemons, limes, and early oranges start to ripen in October. Pick them as they reach their peak color and firmness.
Guavas: Depending on your climate, guavas may be ready to harvest this month. Watch for them to soften slightly and release a sweet fragrance.

6. Get Ready for New Growth

October is a great time to think ahead. What do you want your garden to look like in the coming months? Start planning for winter crops or consider which fruit trees you want to add to your space. At Sow Exotic, we’re here to help with expert advice and a wide range of plants and seeds that are perfect for the upcoming season.

Final Thoughts

October gardening brings a sense of renewal, especially in subtropical climates like Florida, where the cooler weather is a welcome relief for both plants and gardeners. Whether you’re planting new trees, caring for your existing garden, or harvesting the fruits of your labor, Sow Exotic has everything you need to make this October your best gardening month yet.

Happy Gardening!
The Sow Exotic Team 🌱