When to Plant Zucchini in Florida

Growing Zucchini in Florida: Complete Guide

Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Florida's last frost. Depending on your zone, Florida gardeners start seeds indoors between December 4, 2026 (Zone 11a) and February 15, 2027 (Zone 8b), then move transplants outside once their zone's last frost has passed — the zone table above has your exact dates.

Because Florida stretches across 7 USDA hardiness zones (8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b), planting windows can shift by as much as six to eight weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 50 days to maturity, Zucchini needs the indoor head start that Florida's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Zucchini requires full sun (6-8 hours) and regular (1-2 inches/week) moisture. Southeastern summers are hot and humid; mulch heavily to retain moisture and shade roots during peak heat.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of Florida.